Korean Teams Excel in DEF CON 34 Hacking Competition

Two South Korean hacking teams secured top-three finishes at the DEF CON Capture the Flag (CTF) 34 competition held in Las Vegas from August 6 to August 9, 2026. The event is known as the 'Olympics' for ethical hackers, with 686 teams competing globally. Only 12 teams made it to the finals, showcasing exceptional skills in cybersecurity. The Ministry of Science and ICT confirmed that six South Korean teams reached the finals, emphasizing the country's commitment to developing cybersecurity talent. The competition aims to prepare experts to address evolving digital threats, particularly in the context of artificial intelligence advancements.

Key Points: • Two South Korean teams finished in the top three at DEF CON 34. • The competition featured 686 global teams, with only 12 advancing to the finals. • The Ministry of Science and ICT is focused on nurturing cybersecurity talent in South Korea.