Sejong Writing Competition

# Sejong Writing Competition The Sejong Cultural Society, a Chicago-based nonprofit that introduces Korean arts and literature to English-speaking audiences, runs an annual writing competition centered on sijo, the traditional three-line Korean poetic form with a fixed syllabic structure and a signature twist in its final line. The competition is open to all residents of the United States and Canada regardless of ethnic background, with a pre-college division for entrants 18 and younger. ## What You'll Do - Study the sijo form using the society's free instructional videos, essays, and examples - Write and revise an original sijo in English on any subject - Submit through the online submission system by the annual winter deadline (February 28 in 2026) - Compete for cash prizes judged by poets and scholars of Korean literature ## Who Should Apply Students 18 or younger anywhere in the US or Canada who enjoy poetry and want a distinctive, tightly structured challenge beyond the usual contest genres. No Korean language or heritage is required, and the compact form makes the contest accessible to middle schoolers as well as seasoned high school poets. Note that the society's former essay category was discontinued in 2026; the competition now focuses on sijo. ## Outcomes Winners receive cash awards and publication on the society's site, joining an archive used by teachers nationwide. For young poets, it is a rare credential in an international poetic form - and a conversation piece for portfolios and applications.