By Honorary Reporter Oshini Jayamuni from Sri Lanka
Photos = Oshini Jayamuni

Last year, I decided to join Korea.net's Honorary Reporter program. I initially hesitated to apply due to lack of experience, but eventually did so given my deep interest in Korea and writing. I learned something new about Korea every day, and I love sharing my interest in Korea with others.

The following are what I gained through the program.

Experience
Learning to write a good article was a great experience. As I progressed in writing, I noticed improvement with every story. I interviewed and introduced people with extraordinary talent, learned how to work with other Honorary Reporters and write about Korea-related events around the world.

Inspiration
The websites of Talk Talk Korea and Korea.net have interesting content every day. Every Honorary Reporter article is unique and informative and thus serves as inspiration for me. The workshops organized by the program's coordinators motivated me to learn new things as well. I joined every workshop and my peers and the coordinators always shared helpful information

Motivation
The coordinators have supported me since the day I joined, as their advice and encouragement motivate me all the time. In addition, the moving and warm speech by first lady Kim Jung-sook at the official induction ceremony motivated me to do better.

New friendships
The program is an opportunity to build international friendships. I've met a lot of talented people with the same interests during online gatherings. It was great to meet people from a wide range of cultures and share our experiences and love for Korea.

Growth and confidence
Each day in the program offered me an opportunity to grow. Sixteen of my articles were posted on Korea.net's main site and two were published in Korea Magazine.

The monthly missions helped me discover abilities I didn't know I had. I learned to produce content such as travel brochures, digital illustrations and Korean calligraphy. I was also one of the winners of the campaign "Perfect K-summer City" and the Hangeul Calligraphy Contest, and my works were among the 10 Honorary Reporter projects featured at the "Korea World" metaverse exhibition. Being named one of the top 100 Honorary Reporters at the year-end ceremony also boosted my confidence. 

enny0611@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.