By Honorary Reporter John Paul Serraon from Philippines
Photo = Thoraia Gamal

Egyptian K-influencer Thoraia Gamal received a bronze medal in this year's Hangeul I Met photo contest from June 16 to Aug. 21 hosted by the National Hangeul Museum in Seoul. The Korean Culture and Information Service on Oct. 9 honored her as its K-influencer of the year.

Her heartfelt photograph captures a special moment with her child. In an interview through a video call on Oct. 13, she shared what it was like to compete in the event. 

A line from the hit K-drama "Guardian: The Lonely and Great God" about Thoraia Gamal's affection for her child is inscribed in Gamal's bronze-winning entry in this year's Hangeul I Met photo contest hosted by the National Hangeul Museum in Seoul.

How did you discover Korea and Hangeul and why did you enter this contest?

I initially discovered Korea and Hangeul through Korean pop culture, especially K-dramas that introduced me to the beauty of the language and culture. What motivated me to enter the contest was the opportunity to connect with Korean culture on a deeper level. I wanted to express my love for Hangeul in a unique and creative way.

What about Korean culture captured your interest initially?

One specific moment that deeply resonated with me was while I watched the Korean series "Guardian: The Lonely and Great God" with my daughter. One line from the drama, "Every moment I spent with you was amazing," was a simple message that struck a chord with me as a moment of genuine connection and affection. I wanted to convey the same sentiment to my daughter, so this led me to explore Hangeul further and enter the contest. 

Name your fondest memory of the competition.

The most memorable aspect of the event was its creative energy and spirit of competition. It was amazing to see how participants expressed their love for Hangeul through artistic mediums. I found fantastic art and performances showcasing the rich cultural exchange between Korea and other countries.

What was the meaning behind the photo that earned you the bronze?

The photo captures a heartfelt moment I shared with my daughter. We were wearing Hanbok and creating a Hangeul sentence together. The caption read "Every moment I spent with you was amazing" from the K-drama "Guardian," which I watched with my daughter. 

How was your experience in the event?
My daughter and I had a great time creating the Hangeul sentence together. It was our first time working on something like this and it felt amazing. The competition was intense and all the works were beautiful. What made it even more special was wearing Hanbok during the  process. It was also my first time to make a Hanbok for my daughter.
  

msjeon22@korea.kr

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