The Sejong Cultural Society is inviting submissions for Sejong Essay Competition 2025. The last date of submission is February 28.
adult (age 19 – 30 years), senior (grade 9th – 12th), and junior (grade 8th and younger)
Topic:”O. Cuniculi“ by Pyun Hye-Yong
Prompts: Along with Han Kang and Jo Kyung-ran, Pyun Hye-young is among a group of new “international” Korean women writers whose work is characterized by its exploration of the darker aspects of contemporary society. Pyun is often compared to Western writers like Kafka and Camus, and to the Japanese writer Haruki Murakami. “O. Cuniculi” is a very representative Pyun story, which can be read on many levels as allegory, psychological realism, social criticism, and even surrealism.
What is it about the story that you find most powerful, and what insight does the story provide into Korean society (or society in general)?
You may draw comparisons with other writers or provide a close reading of the story on its own terms. Be sure to explain the reason for your interpretation or comparison.
Topic: “Kapitan Ri” by Chon Kwang-yong
Prompts: “Kapitan Ri” is generally seen as a satirical representation of a certain type of opportunistic Korean. The story can also be read as an allegory and a criticism of the Korean nation as a whole that applies even today, but what makes it such an important part of modern Korean literature is that its details are very true to life.
How do you, as a contemporary reader in the U.S, judge Dr. Yi?
How would that compare to how a Korean of the older generation would judge him?
Is there anything about him that is redeeming from either point of view?
Read the story “Kapitan Ri“compare how different readers might regard Dr. Yi, what do you learn about the themes of the story?
Korea has a rich tradition of storytelling, and its folktales reflect important aspects of its history and culture. Many of the old historical texts are full of local legends and myths. Folk tales can be entertaining and educational, but they can also strike a deep chord in our personal lives, and many Korean folktales demonstrate the universal tragedies and triumphs of daily life in the family.
Topics: Each topic refers to the list of Korean folktales found on our 2025 folktales index page. Please make sure to select a folktale under the “2025 Essay Competition” list. When writing your essay, please be sure to include specific references to the tale you chose to write about.
Rules:
Statement on the use of AI and plagiarism:
Copyright Statement:
Interested candidates can apply online via this page.
