As a student who had been studying in the Philippines since very young, I honestly did not have much knowledge about Dokdo island dispute. So I thought it would be a great opportunity for me to learn about Dokdo dispute by participating in this writing contest.

It was quite challenging for me to research about Dokdo and its historical background as I wasn’t familiar with the Korean history at all, which I was quite ashamed of. However, I did manage to read several articles and individual opinions from both offline and online, and finally, I was able to write down my essay.

Writing an essay about Dokdo dispute not only filled my superficial knowledge about the island but also provided me a profound background and understanding of Korean history surrounding the island.
Not only that, I’ve realized how Koreans are so proud and confident in protecting and claiming sovereignty over this small yet invaluable island. This writing contest had allowed me to reconsider my root, that as a proud Korean, I should take a great pride in protecting Dokdo as well.

I sincerely thank all the judges and the committee for having this wonderful event, and it is such an honor for me to win the first prize award.
I hope many young Korean students abroad take this opportunity to learn more about our nation and its history.