Gwak Seungwoo from Jeonnam High, Only Gold Medalist in Humanities; First Place in Fashion Design

Awarded at the Gwangju Local Skills Competition
Self-study and studio training while balancing academics
"I dream of becoming a designer recognized on the world stage"

A general high school student in Gwangju has attracted attention by winning a gold medal at a skills competition.

According to the Gwangju Office of Education on the 17th, Kwak Seungwoo, a third-year student at Jeonnam High School, took first place in the Fashion Design category at the '2025 Gwangju Metropolitan City Local Skills Competition' held from the 7th to the 11th.

Jeonnam High School student Seungwoo Kwak won the gold medal in the 'Clothing Design' category at the local skills competition held from the 7th to the 11th. Photo by Gwangju Office of Education

Although a total of 89 high school students, including Kwak, won gold medals at this competition, Kwak was the only winner from a general high school. In particular, the Fashion Design category requires advanced skills to complete garments within a limited time, so most of the winners are usually university students or students from vocational high schools.

Despite balancing regular classes and school schedules, Kwak continued to train in his spare time by moving between academies, factories, and his personal studio. It is known that he built up his skills through consistent practice and self-study without any special support.

With this award, Kwak will receive a certificate, medal, and prize money, and has also earned the right to represent Gwangju at the '60th National Skills Competition' to be held in Gwangju this September.

Kwak said, "There were times I wanted to give up, but I endured by thinking of the fashion design brand under my own name that I have dreamed of since I was young," and added, "Someday, I want to reach the top at the WorldSkills Competition."

Cho Nanra, principal of Jeonnam High School, said, "This award is a symbolic case that proves general high school students can also demonstrate sufficient capabilities in technical fields," and added, "We will actively support our students to broaden their possibilities."