Every year, a new story travels to Korea, carrying passion, dreams, and details that are often not shown in front of the camera.
However, Mayar, a doctor who represented Egypt in the 'Quiz on Korea' competition, did not allow the experience to remain a passing memory. She chose to document it in a booklet, carrying it with her and for others as a bridge between those who have experienced the journey and those who are waiting for their turn.

In this interview with Korea net, Mayar shares how the journey began and how a short experience turned into a long-lasting memory. (The interview was done via WhatsApp between September 1 and September 17, 2025).

1.Can you introduce yourself to Korea net readers and share how your journey with the Korean language began, and what inspired you to write this booklet?
I’m Mayar, a 24-year-old Egyptian girl with a deep passion for languages and diverse cultures, especially the Korean language and culture. My journey with Korea began, like many others, through Korean dramas, where I was attracted by the sound of the language and the shape of its writing system. I started learning Korean independently in 2016.
The idea of the booklet came to me after returning from Korea in 2022, when I participated in the 'Quiz on Korea' competition. I felt a strong desire to document my experience and share the lessons and advice I learned, so it could serve as support and benefit for future participants.

2.In a digital world where many people share their experiences through social media, why did you choose to present your experience through writing? What is the main goal of this booklet?
Although social media allows faster and easier sharing, it remains momentary and short-lived. I wanted to create something tangible with deeper meaning, something that can be passed directly to the next finalist and serve as a real companion in their journey.

3.Did you ever imagine that your passion for the Korean language would lead you not only to represent your country in a competition broadcast on KBS, but also to produce a booklet documenting your experience?
I did not expect my passion to take me this far. However, learning Korean became the key that opened doors I never imagined: from participating in 'Quiz on Korea' in 2022, to the 'Global Woorimal Battle'  in 2023, working as a translator, appearing on Korean screens, and finally producing my booklet 'Egyptian Stories from Quiz on Korea.'
What I learned is that when you do what you love and put effort into it, you will be surprised by opportunities that come without planning.

4. When did you start preparing the booklet, and did you face any challenges or moments of doubt during the process?
The idea came to me after returning from Korea in 2022, but it was actually put into action in June 2025, with the announcement of the new qualification rounds in Egypt.
Of course, I sometimes had moments of doubt: Is what I am doing really important? Will readers like it? Will it be as useful as I hope?
However, the continuous support and encouragement from my friends was a strong motivation to continue. I also felt great happiness when Rawan, the 2025 Egyptian finalist, told me that the booklet was a valuable source for preparation and motivation.

5. If we take a quick look inside your booklet, what sections will we find?
The booklet includes several main sections:
_Tips before, during, and after travel
_Guidelines for competition filming day
_'Korea 101,' covering essential information about Korea, its culture, and language
_Encouraging messages from Egyptian participants who joined previous editions of the competition

6. You added a section called 'Korea 101' that presents Korea from daily life details to its deep cultural and historical background. Did you feel that the competition required more than academic preparation?
Absolutely. The competition is not just a knowledge test; it is a complete cultural experience. The large amount of information can be overwhelming, making it difficult for participants to know where to start.
That is why I organized the information in a simple and engaging way, to serve as a first step for structured preparation and confident studying.

7. You dedicated a section to 'post-travel depression.' Why did you feel it was important to address this topic?
After returning from Korea, I experienced unfamiliar feelings of nostalgia and emptiness. Later, I learned that this is known as 'post-travel depression,' and I realized I was not alone.
Therefore, I felt it was important to reassure new participants that these feelings are completely normal and are part of a meaningful and rich experience.

8. Messages from former participants… how did you collect them, and how did you feel while reading them?
I started by contacting Noran, a 2019 finalist, who then connected me with other participants.
This section was one of my favorite parts of the booklet. While collecting the messages, I felt a deep sense of pride and happiness.
Although I do not have strong personal relationships with all participants, I felt as if we were one family connected by a shared experience and an unforgettable journey.

9. Who was the first person you wanted to give a copy of the booklet to, and why?
The first copy was for myself. I wanted to remind myself that dreams can be achieved through effort, and that this achievement is a meaningful milestone in my journey.
I also dedicated the booklet to future participants as a source of inspiration and encouragement to continue pursuing their dreams.

10. You left blank pages at the end of the booklet. Do you plan to release a new edition or turn it into a series?
The blank pages are an open invitation for future participants to write their own stories, document their experiences, and leave their personal mark.
Every story has its place, and every dream deserves a page to be written.

11. Do you hope that this booklet will one day become part of the official 'Quiz on Korea' competition experience?
Yes. The bigger vision is for the booklet to become an official part of the competition, delivered annually to Egyptian finalists as a tradition that reflects Egypt’s continuous presence in the competition.

12. Finally, what advice would you give to those who wish to participate in 'Quiz on Korea'?
Do not hesitate. It is a priceless journey from preparation to selection to travel. Each stage carries deep lessons, opens new perspectives, and creates unforgettable memories.
At first, I thought learning the language alone was enough, but the competition pushed me to explore Korean culture in depth and discover many new dimensions.
In short, 'Quiz on Korea' is an experience worth living in all its details.

We thank Mayar for her valuable contribution and hope her words inspire others to share their experiences, as every story opens new doors and helps others better understand this unique journey.

Keywords: 
Quiz on Korea, KBS, Egyptian Stories in Korea, Korean booklet, Korean language, Korean culture, Korea net, Republic of Korea.