3rd Dokdo History Essay Competition Winner- English Div. High School : 1st Place Kristina Fields



Hi! I’m Kristina! I’m a sophomore, going to be junior, in high school; currently I am attending Nashua High School North. I am interested in the STEM fields, and enjoy researching topics within those areas, as well as world problems… like the Dokdo Dispute. When I go to college, I am hoping to major in either Astrobiology or Aerospace Engineering. In addition to this, I would also like to pursue music as a hobby. I currently play French horn and trumpet in my school’s bands. As an extra-curricular, I tutor students at one of the local middle schools with my friend. That is just a little bit about me…

After researching the Dokdo dispute for a couple of years, the importance of the island has come alive. It’s not just about how the island can physically help the two nations, Korea and Japan, but how much the people of these countries hold towards it. To both, ownership of the island means freedom. To Korea, it means a freedom of the past injustice brought upon them during the Japanese Imperialism. To Japan, it means a freedom of the haunting reminder of their loss after World War II. In understanding the deeper motives of both countries, the Dokdo dispute is a serious matter that needs attention by the public.

When I previously researched this topic, I never fully understood why the countries would be so concerned over land… after all it is just an island. This changed after I visited Korea this past summer, and I experienced the beauty of the island of Dokdo and I understand why it would be important. The beautiful waves crashing down on the magnificent rocks, splashing water with the warm light of the sun causing the water to reflect the beautiful colors of the rainbow.
Not only do you see this breathtaking island on tours, but everywhere you step in Korea you experience the people’s concerns. Posters, TV Shows, Flash Mobs, Activities, etc… Dokdo is a huge part of Korean Culture, and I am eternally grateful for the GrapeVineTimes & KCHEFNE for raising awareness of Dokdo, the beautiful island of Korea.
English Div. High School :
1st Place
Kristina Fields