| Copyright | Award-winning works will be deemed to allow non-commercial use for the promotion of the UNESCO ICM (such as creating catalogs, postcards, and posting on the website and SNS) and for the Center's objective activities (such as online and offline exhibitions). In this case, the works may be edited or modified as necessary. After award-winning submissions are selected, the winners must submit a copyright license agreement at the request of the organizer |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Open to all photographers, worldwide. |
| Finish | 22 July 2024 |
| Entry fee | Free |
Finished
The International Centre of Martial Arts for Youth Development and
Engagement under the auspices of UNESCO (ICM) is hosting the “2024
Martial Arts Photo Contest” to raise interest and awareness in the values of
martial arts.
Theme: Martial Arts, Embracing the World
- Universal values of martial arts, such as inclusiveness, fairness, resilience, sportsmanship, etc., that could be shared by everyone around the globe
- Values of martial arts captured during physical activity or in everyday life
Prizes:
| Prize | Numbers | Prize Money |
| Grand | 1 | 5,000,000 KRW |
| Gold | 2 | 3,000,000 KRW each |
| Silver | 3 | 1,500,000 KRW each |
| Bronze | 5 | 700,000 KRW each |
| Fine work | 20 | 300,000 KRW each |
| Total | 31 | 25,000,000 KRW |
Announcement Date: 30 August 2024 16:00 (KST)
Only photographs taken using digital devices are accepted (prints are not accepted).
– Submit a copy of your original photograph during submission; each photo should be saved in JPG, or PNG format
Original files must be submitted upon request. The long edge of the original file should exceed 5,000px. If the original file is not submitted upon request, it will not be considered during judging.
– You may submit up to three photographs (only the highest photograph will be awarded per person)
Frequently asked questions — Free photography contests
Who can enter free photography contests?
Most free contests welcome photographers worldwide, regardless of experience level or equipment. Many explicitly encourage students, hobbyists, and emerging creators—always verify age requirements or thematic restrictions on the official contest page.
Are free photography contests really free?
Yes—entry is $0 across the board. Some contests offer optional paid perks like expedited feedback or printed certificates, but submission, judging, and basic participation remain completely free. Fee status is confirmed in the Quick Facts section on each PhotoCompete listing.
What prizes do free photography contests offer?
Prizes vary widely: cash awards range $100–$5,000, while non-monetary rewards include online features, publication credits, mentorship sessions, exhibition inclusion, or gear donations. Even without cash, free contests offer valuable exposure and portfolio-building opportunities.
How do I choose which free contest to enter?
Prioritize contests whose theme or mission aligns with your work. Review past winners to gauge style preferences, confirm technical specs (resolution, file format), and read rights clauses carefully—even free contests may request usage rights for promotional purposes.
Frequently asked questions — International photography contests
Who can enter international photography contests?
Most international contests welcome photographers worldwide, regardless of nationality or experience level. Always verify eligibility on the official contest page—some restrict by age (18+), amateur/professional status, or thematic focus.
Are international photography contests free to enter?
Some are free; many charge $10–$50 per image, with early-bird discounts often available. Entry fees and deadline tiers are listed in the Quick Facts section at the top of each contest page on PhotoCompete.
What prizes do international photography contests offer?
Prizes range from cash awards ($500–$25,000) to gallery exhibitions, publication features, professional gear, and artist residencies. Prestigious awards like the Sony World Photography Awards or IPA carry significant industry recognition.
How do I choose which international contest to enter?
Align your strongest work with the contest theme and review past winners to gauge aesthetic preferences. Confirm technical specs (resolution, file format), check rights clauses carefully, and prioritize contests whose mission matches your artistic goals.