22nd Economic Essay Contest for University Students

The Korea Times invites Korean and foreign undergraduate and graduate university students to enter its 22nd English Economic Essay Contest.

The annual event, sponsored by Woori Bank, aims to help students better understand the economy and finance and improve their English writing skills.

Applicants should submit an 800-word essay in newspaper column style on one of the designated topics below.

Applicants must include their name, nationality, school major, email address and phone number with the submission.

Please download the application form.

Topics

Topic 1
Korean banks and securities firms are increasingly entering the digital asset industry as a new growth driver. This raises the question of whether their expansion into areas such as custody, asset management, stablecoin issuance and exchange acquisitions can create new growth opportunities. Discuss how such moves may contribute to financial market innovation and consumer protection in Korea.
Topic 2
Financial institutions are using artificial intelligence (AI) to improve customer service, develop customized financial products and strengthen financial security. The use of AI technology has become a key factor driving innovation across the financial industry. Based on this trend, discuss how financial institutions should continue to develop their use of AI in the areas of customer service, financial products and security in the future.