> KBS's “Korean Language Competition” for the first time conducts filming abroad
> Qualifying rounds kick-off at four KSIs located in France, Egypt, Vietnam, and the U.S., commencing in May

In celebration of its 50th anniversary, the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) collaborates with the King Sejong Institute Foundation to produce a special global broadcast of the “Korean Language Competition,” spotlighting overseas campuses of KSIs.

A stalwart educational TV show, “Korean Language Competition” was initiated by KBS in 2003 and has enjoyed viewers' admiration for two decades. This special event, arranged in conjunction with the Foundation, aims to highlight the fervor for learning the Korean language at King Sejong Institutes in each respective country and the proliferation of the Korean Wave. Simultaneously, it aims to elevate the global recognition of the Korean language. For the first time in its history, the program will be filmed overseas.

In this regard, from May to July, the qualifying rounds of the Korean Language Competition will take place in France, Egypt, Vietnam, and the United States. Each country will select two contestants. These winners will receive a small cash prize and a pass to the main event. During the main event, they will display their Korean language skills in two-person teams, competing against teams from other countries. The main event is slated for September in Korea, with the victorious team amongst the four winning 10 million KRW.

The preliminary rounds were initiated on May 24 at a KSI in France, wrapping up on May 28 at KSI in the Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in Cairo, Egypt. They will continue until July at a KSI in Vietnam (Saturday, June 24) and a KSI in the United States (Saturday, July 15).

All students and alumni of the King Sejong Institute are welcome to apply online. For further details, individuals are encouraged to contact their respective KSI. The Vietnam-based KSI is currently inviting participants for the qualifiers, while the U.S.-based KSI will commence the recruitment process in June.

Meanwhile, each preliminary round will be aired weekly on KBS's Korean Language Competition, starting Monday, September 11. The main round of the Global Korean Language Competition will be broadcast as a special feature on Hangeul Day, Monday, October 9.

“We hope the Global Korean Language Competition allows KSI students to fully demonstrate their Korean language proficiency while making fond memories," Lee Hai-young, President of KSIF, stated. "The Foundation will persist in its efforts to enhance the global reputation of the Korean language and culture through this collaboration with KBS.”