The event aimed to showcase the language skills and cultural understanding of participants, while providing them a platform to share their personal experiences learning the Korean language.

Out of the 46 applicants, 22 students who passed the preliminary round were granted the opportunity to exhibit their proficiency in both spoken and written Korean.

Through speeches and writings, participants shared captivating stories about their language journeys and perspectives on Korean culture.

Ayat Tarek claimed the first-place position in speaking, while Nadine Yasser secured the first-place position in writing, according to the centre on Thursday.

The first-place winners in both the speaking and writing categories will represent Egypt in the final round, set to take place in South Korea in October.

Additionally, they will be invited to attend a special Korean language training program designed for outstanding learners.

Winners in each category of the final round will be offered the chance to apply for language study programs at prestigious Korean universities.

Expressing his delight at the results of the contest, Oh Sungho, Director of Cairo's Korean Cultural Center, noted the growing interest in Korean language learning among Egyptian youths.

"The Center has plans to expand Korean language education by accepting more applicants for seasonal courses and opening a new branch of the King Sejong Institute in another city," said Oh.

Demand for learning Korean has surged in recent years, fueled by the growing global popularity of Korean dramas, movies, K-POP music, and cuisine.

The King Sejong Institute, a network of government-funded Korean language centres for foreigners, was established in 2007 with 13 centres operating in three countries. However, its tremendous success and increasing demand for Korean language education have led to the establishment of 244 centers in 84 countries by 2022.