On September 10, 2024, the Sydney Korean Education Centre, led by Director Ji-young Kwon, held the 2024 Korean Speech Contest for secondary students. The event was designed to encourage and motivate students at Australian schools who are learning Korean. Seven non-Korean background finalists, selected through a preliminary round on September 3, delivered speeches on topics such as "Why I Learn Korean" and "What I Want to Do If I Visit Korea." The students' thoughtful and witty presentations demonstrated their strong interest in the Korean language and culture.
To accommodate students from across Australia, the contest combined in-person presentations with online participation. Although certificates could not be physically presented to online participants, the on-site attendees and teachers sent congratulations via video and took group photos, creating a heartwarming atmosphere of unity.
The top three winners will be recommended to participate in the 2024 Overseas Youth Korean Language Program hosted by Korea's Ministry of Education in November, with airfare and accommodation fully covered. The four remaining finalists received certificates and $200 vouchers. Director Kwon praised the students for their dedication to learning Korean and expressed her gratitude to the students and teachers who worked hard to prepare for the contest.