Nur Rahimah Syakirah binti Mohd Mahmud, the champion of the 2024 Quiz on Korea, said she was excited to go to Korea, learn more about the culture and create a unique experience for herself.
The quiz, co-hosted by the South Korean Embassy in Brunei Darussalam and Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) is a global programme organised by South Korea’s public broadcasting station KBS and its Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enhance the understanding of Korean culture worldwide.
The event was held in conjunction with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Brunei Darussalam and South Korea.
Nur Rahimah Syakirah, a second-year English Studies undergraduate at UBD, outscored 36 others.
She said, “I feel honoured to be participating in such a great cultural event. Being in the same room with people with the same cultural interest makes me happy. The quiz itself was not difficult but it was also not easy. Other participants were also very skilled in Korean culture so it was both a fun and challenging experience.”
UBD Director of Language Centre Hajah Suciyati binti Haji Sulaiman said the 2024 Quiz on Korea in Brunei is an event that not only highlights the beauty and richness of Korean culture, but also enriches both countries, bringing people closer together from trade and tourism to education and cultural exchanges.
Ambassador of South Korea to Brunei Darussalam Kim Soung-eun highlighted that the programme contributes to the promotion of various aspects of Korea while the Brunei representative at the 2015 Quiz on Korea was placed fourth in the final. Nur Rahimah Syakirah as the champion will represent the Sultanate in the upcoming final round quiz competition in South Korea, which will be filmed by KBS and aired on TV during Chuseok, Korean Thanksgiving Day.
She also highlighted reasons for learning the language.
“I have been interested in Korean culture and language since I was young. I like listening to K-Pop music and watching Korean shows, which increased my determination in learning more about the language so I can relate to them.”
Kim Soung-eun presented prizes to the winners. UBD Vice-Chancellor Dr Hazri bin Haji Kifle was the guest of honour. – James Kon
