The Korean language echoed through the halls of Mykolas Romeris University (MRU) during the 2025 Korean Language Speech Contest, organized by the Vilnius King Sejong Institute (KSI). The event brought together 12 participants and served not only as a linguistic challenge, but also as a celebration for all those fascinated by the culture of the Republic of Korea.
The contest was divided into two levels – beginner and advanced. Joana Aurelija Matukaitytė was awarded first place in the beginner category, while Viktorija Aleksandra Smirnova triumphed in the advanced level. Viktorija will have the opportunity to travel to South Korea as part of the King Sejong Institute Foundation’s cultural exchange program.
Participants’ performances were evaluated by an international panel of judges: Michaela Kratka, administrator of the King Sejong Institute in Olomouc and lecturer at Palacký University (Czech Republic); Eglė Petrauskaitė, teacher at the Kaunas King Sejong Institute and lecturer at Vytautas Magnus University; Hyeri Lee, Third Secretary of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Lithuania; and Daesuk Choi, former Korean language lecturer at Vilnius University.
The event was opened by MRU Rector Prof. Dr. Inga Žalėnienė, who emphasized how learning the Korean language opens doors to the world. “I am glad that the Korean language is helping our students find their way to the wonderful and friendly Republic of Korea, enabling them to get to know its people and distinctive culture, and fostering our friendship,” said the Rector.
The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Lithuania, Joyoung Jeon, and Director of the King Sejong Institute, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lora Tamošiūnienė, also joined in welcoming the participants.
Adding to the festive mood was a performance by the KSI student dance group "Crosswind", who showcased a dynamic modern dance reflecting their passion for Korean pop culture and language.
The contest once again demonstrated that language has the power to bring people together from different corners of the world and inspire deeper mutual understanding. Korean is no longer seen as something exotic in Lithuania – it is becoming a meaningful bridge between countries, universities, and young people.
For those interested in Korean culture, language, or study opportunities in South Korea, Mykolas Romeris University offers a range of relevant study programs. Double degree programs in collaboration with Dongseo University – Game Development and Digital Animation and Digital Media Design – provide a unique chance to study in South Korea, even for students outside the field of philology. Those wishing to deepen their knowledge of Korean language and culture can also choose programs such as English for Specific Purposes and Korean Studies or English for Specific Purposes and Second Foreign Language, with Korean as a language module.
