Royal Asiatic Society Korea invites high school students to enter its 5th Annual History and Culture English Essay Contest, co-sponsored by ‘K_Heritage_Lab’ and ‘Asia Development Foundation’.

The purpose of the contest is to challenge students to understand Korea’s rich heritage better and improve their English writing skills. The contest is open to all high school students in Korea, including foreign language high schools and international schools.

There are two categories of application.

  • CATEGORY 1: Korean High School Students – 한국고등학교 재학생 (일반고등학교, 외국어고등학교, 과학고등학교 등)
  • CATEGORY 2: Foreign School & International Students in Korea – 한국 소재 외국인학교 및 국제학교 재학생

Please choose one topic from the following themes:

  • Topic 1:
    During which century (or two) was Korea at its best? Explain your reasoning.
  • Topic 2:
    You have been asked to make a new holiday in Korea. When is your new holiday, what is it about, and how is it celebrated?

AWARDS

There will be two awards in each of the two categories of competitors.

  • Grand Award
  • Runner Up 

Each Grand Award includes a cash prize and a trophy. Each Runner Up will receive a trophy. All awardees receive letters of commendation.

The two Grand Award essays will be published in Royal Asiatic Society Korea’s 2024 annual journal “Transactions.” The Runners-up will be listed in the journal.

Presentation of awards will take place at Royal Asiatic Society Korea’s annual garden party in Seoul. The date and place will be announced with the invitation.

IMPORTANT DATES, CONTACT & DOWNLOAD

SUBMISSION

Applicants should submit their essays in English in no more than 1000 words. Use the official form to submit your essay.

Before submitting your, please review the following:

  • Please download the writing form (TEMPLATE) (DOWNLOAD)
              * Only Word (.docx) documents will be accepted.
              * Formatting: Times New Roman, font 12, double-spaced.
              * Must include Name, High School Name, Topic of Choice, Title in the header
  • File Name: Your Name_RASK_Topic# (ex: JohnDoe_RASK_2)

After completion of writing, please submit by clicking the icon of ‘Submit‘ below.