On April 24, 2026, the Korean Language Program held its inaugural Korean Speaking Contest in ILC 130, the first of what will become an annual tradition. Finalists, supporters, and faculty filled the room for an afternoon of speeches in Korean.
Dr. Jieun Ryu, Director of the Korean Language Program, opened the contest with a welcome speech. Subin Oh served as MC, introducing the judges and finalists and keeping the program moving.
Seven finalists, each having advanced through a preliminary round, took the stage. Beginner-level students Gyuhui, Nhung, Sophia, and Liye, all from KOR 101 and KOR 102, spoke on the theme "Things I like," sharing personal stories from their daily lives. Nhung's speech stood out: she talked about her dream journal, her music, and her love of movies, in fluent Korean that made the small details land. Intermediate-level students Claire, Derek, and Brooklyn (Haru), all from KOR 302 and KOR 401, took on the theme "What makes a good life." Claire reflected on meaning and love, on pursuing her dreams while staying grateful for the love of family and friends, and her speech drew a strong response from the audience.
The judges—Dr. Jieun Ryu, Professor Sojung Chun, Nena Choi, and Eunsil Cho—listened closely to each speaker. The audience was a mix of fellow Korean language students, friends, faculty, and others who came out of interest in Korean or in the contest itself. When it came time for the Audience Award vote, the room went quiet; everyone clearly took the choice seriously. The result was a tie, a fitting outcome given how strong the field was this year.
The Grand Prize went to Nhung (Beginner) and Claire (Intermediate), and the Audience Award was shared by Gyuhui and Brooklyn (Haru). All award recipients received a Finalist Certificate and a scholarship from the Department of East Asian Studies.
The event was organized by Professor Sojung Chun and Subin Oh. Thanks to the judges, the organizers, and every student who got up to speak, this year's contest was one to remember. 모두 수고했습니다! 🎉
