# Sejong Writing Competition

Annual competition in sijo - the traditional three-line Korean poetic form - with a pre-college division for students 18 and younger across the US and Canada. Entries submitted online; 2026 deadline was February 28.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Sejong Cultural Society |
| Category | arts |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 6–12 |
| Format | Online / virtual |
| Location | Various |
| Apply | https://www.sejongculturalsociety.org/writing/current/index.php |

## About this program

# 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.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for Sejong Writing Competition?

Sejong Writing Competition is open to students in grades 6–12 (middle and high school). Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Sejong Writing Competition online or in person?

Sejong Writing Competition is fully online — students can participate from anywhere with an internet connection.

### How do I apply to Sejong Writing Competition?

Apply directly through Sejong Cultural Society's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-28.
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