The 29th World K-Speech Contest: Fostering Cultural Exchange
On Aug 14, the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City (USSH, VNU-HCM), in collaboration with the Korean Speech Association and the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Ho Chi Minh City co-organized the 29th World Korean Speech Contest - K-SPEECH.
The event aimed to promote Korean culture, foster students’ passion for the Korean language, and contribute to strengthening the Vietnam-Korea friendship.
Group photo of students from Lạc Hồng University - Photo: NGUYÊN KHANG
In his opening remarks, Dr. Lê Hoàng Dũng, Vice Rector of USSH, expressed his honor for hosting K-SPEECH for the first time. He emphasized that USSH, VNU-HCM is a leading institution in Korean language and culture training.
Dr. Lê Hoàng Dũng introducing USSH, VNU-HCM’s four Korean language training centers - Photo: NGUYÊN KHANG
Mr. Kim Kyungseok, President of the Korean Speech Association, expressed his hope that the contest would spread the message that Korean is a language that enables people to freely express their thoughts and emotions. He also looked forward to the continued expansion of K-SPEECH, envisioning it as a foundation for the “Korean Language Era”, thereby elevating the role of Korean in international exchanges.
Mr. Kim Kyungseok (left) presenting a medal of recognition for hosting the contest - Photo: NGUYÊN KHANG
The competition brought together more than 140 contestants from 24 countries, including Vietnam, the United Kingdom, France, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Ethiopia, and more. The diverse topics reflected the wide-ranging concerns of Korean language learners: from pride in national identity and proposals for strengthening diplomatic relations, to honoring firefighters or opposing school violence.
The first prize was awarded to Ms. Jo In-suk, representing Gyeonggi University. She expressed her delight at receiving praise from the judging panel as well as a medal awarded by the President of Korea. She hoped that the messages conveyed in her speech would resonate broadly and contribute to advancing important aspects of social life.
Ms. Jo In-suk (center) receiving the “Presidential Award” worth 3 million KRW - Photo: NGUYÊN KHANG
The runner-up was Ms. Natnicha Bunyuen from Thailand, while Mr. Lê Quốc Duy from the Faculty of Korean Studies, USSH, VNU-HCM won third place. In addition, the organizers presented 31 Excellence Awards and 15 Merit Awards to other participants.
The Faculty of Korean Studies’ team also received the third-place team award - Photo: NGUYÊN KHANG
The contest concluded with performances by contestants from all 24 participating countries. The event provided an opportunity for participants to share their perspectives on various aspects of Korean culture while fostering connections and exchanging knowledge with peers. This activity is expected to promote cooperation, strengthen Vietnam-Korea friendship, and maintain an academic platform for young people passionate about the Korean language and culture.
Some images of contestants at the competition:
Source: NGUYÊN KHANG
Translated by: Như Quỳnh Lý
