Sim, a student at Yeonghoon Elementary School, delivered her speech on July 18, 2026, at the event organized by the World Arts Exchange Association. While many contestants focused on standard themes, Sim chose to interpret the anthem as a vessel for themes of peace, sacrifice, and national aspiration. Her performance was noted for its surprising maturity, with judges highlighting her precise pronunciation and stage composure as the deciding factors for the top honor.
Seven-Year-Old Student Wins National Speech Prize with Anthem Tribute
Standing before a crowd at Seoul’s Sangmyung University, seven-year-old Sharon Sim captivated judges at the National English Speech Contest. The second-grader took home the Overall Grand Prize for her presentation, "My Song, My Korea," which explored the historical weight and national identity embedded in the South Korean anthem.
An official from the association, which operates under the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, praised the student for her ability to bridge language skills with cultural advocacy. For Sim, the goal was personal: she expressed a desire to help international peers understand the pride she feels for her country. Looking ahead, the young speaker plans to continue her studies, aiming to serve as a cultural ambassador who can share Korean traditions with a global audience.
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