17th Annual National Korean Language Writing Contest for Foreign Nationals Held On October 8, the Annual National Korean Language Writing Contest was held. In its 17th year, the contest is an event hosted to promote affection for the Korean language among foreigners and overseas Koreans. This year, 1,580 participants from 66 countries displayed their Korean writing skills. This number was the largest in the 17-year history of the contest. In his opening speech, Yonsei President Kim Han-Joong emphasized the valued of the Korean language. “The study of the Korean language, which began in the 1920s, is one of Yonsei’s finest traditions. Through the common medium of the Korean language, we will be able to share our thoughts, hearts, and dreams.” Director Seo Sang-Gyu of the Institute of Language Research and Education announced the evaluation criteria for the contest as “persuasive writing which reflects the depth of experience”. The judges included novelist Gwon Ji-Ye and poet Choi Seung-Ho. After writing for 90 minutes, the participants viewed performances of traditional Korean music and dance while waiting for the judges. The grand prize (Minister of Culture Award) went to Tsedenjav Bayarmaaa (27, Sogang University) of Mongolia. Bayarmaa said that she could not express her joy in words. Twenty more prizes were given out this year due to the large number of participants.