2021 Kyung-Uhn Scholarhip 11th Annual Speech Contest
Speech Topic
Requirement: Question #1 is required for all students to answer. Students may choose two or more additional prompts from questions #2 to #6 to discuss
Discuss Korea’s response to external influences in the late 19th (1860-1899) and early 20th (1900-1910) century, and its impact on Korean history and society
How did Korea react to pressure, including political, economic, social, or military, from foreign countries in the late 19th and early 20th century?
Did any world events, particularly in East Asia, significantly impact the nation of Korea, and how?
How did the opening of Korea compare to that of Japan, and/or China?
What impact did the opening of Korea have on consequent events in Korean history through the early 20th century?
How might Korea’s history have differed if it had reacted differently to foreign influences?
What do you think are some of the lasting impacts on Korean history and society?
Historical context
The 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by great social upheaval: the rise of industrialism and the resulting changes in global commerce and social order. Western Europe and the United States prospered during the 19th century and looked outward to expand and exert their power and influence. By the early 20th century, no continent in the world escaped the influence of Western Europe and the United States.
Korea, China, and Japan were no exceptions to western influence. Each country faced internal and external pressures to open its borders to the west. Their responses differed and had a significant impact on their respective economic, social, and political development.
During this tumultuous time, China and Japan continued their historic attempt to exert power over Korea, which added to the pressure Korea faced from the west.
How did Korea respond to these pressures?
Reference
Please find attached a list of references for the theme for 2021, “External Pressures To Korea And Its Response In Late 19th To Early 20th Century.” The list is not exhaustive but compiled here to provide some help with initiating research of the topic. Books on Korea will provide you with general information on the theme. Online sites will be helpful in more in-depth researching specific topics of your interest.
Some #keywords for Search: Korea History 1864-1910; The Late Joseon; Opening of Korea; Korea’s foreign relations; Sino-Korean War; Russo-Korean War; Byungin Yangyo; French Invasion; Shinmi Yangyo; Kabo Reform; Taewongun; Donghak Movement; General Sherman; Commodore Schufeldt; Commodore W. Perry; British occupation of Komun Island; Kangwha Treaty; Imperialism and Colonialism in East Asia; Meiji Restoration; Opium War.
Suggestions for constructing and presenting the speech
Decide points you would like to focus on.
Discuss your points by stating your position, citing examples, listing the reference sources, analyzing the situations/events, and include your conclusion.
Provide your written essay with an appropriate title.
The length of your speech should be 4-6 minutes.
submission deadline
Application Process:
Submit Application to Participate by Thursday, December 31, 2020
Submit Manuscript for Speech by Sunday, February 21, 2021
Please note that your manuscript will NOT be accepted unless you have submitted Application to Participate by the deadline specified above.
Early Submission of Manuscript Due Date: Thursday, December 31, 2020
Perks of early submission: If you submit your manuscript draft by December 31st, 2020, you will be invited to a writing workshop and have an opportunity to revise and resubmit your final manuscript.
REQUIREMENTS
Eligibility : Students in grades 9-12
Language: English
Length of Speech : 4-6 minutes
AWARDS
Grand Award (1 student) : $1,200
1st Place (1 student) : $1,000
2nd Place (2 students) : $500
3rd Place (3 students) : $300
Research Award (2 students) : $500
Honorable Mention (2 students) $200
Finalists: $ 100
CONTEST DAY!
Date: April 24, 2021
Location : Virtual