By reaching out to the younger generations through contemporary creative and fine arts utilizing Western media, the Sejong Cultural Society strives to advance awareness and understanding of Korea's cultural heritage amongst people in the United States.

It is our hope that, through this, the rich culture behind Korea's colorful history will be accessible to people of any ethnicity and nationality while being a unique part of the larger, more familiar Western culture.

"This past spring (2008), the Sejong Cultural Society in Chicago sponsored a sijo writing contest for middle and high school students. As a contest judge, I read all the entries and felt delighted that such a number of students had found the form interesting, workable, and expressive in English.

Our congratulations go out to all the participants, and our thanks also to the Sejong Cultural Society. The contest might be viewed as a stage on which the sijo form presented itself to a young, contemporary audience in a language entirely different from Korean. I would judge the performance a success."

- "Azalea" Vol II editor's note by
David R. McCann, Professor, Harvard University
Director, Korea Institute

2010 Writing Competition

The 2010 Writing Competition is now open to applicants.
Application due date April 30, 2010.
Applications | Essay Competition | Sijo Competition

For previous winners, please see our
past writing competition index.

2009 Music Competition (12/6/2009)

First Place Winners

Complete Winners List | Judges | Winners Concert