Pune: In a boost for Korean language learners in Western India, the Youth build Foundation’s Indo-Korean Center (IKC) in Balewadi, Pune, has been designated as an official overseas TOPIK Institution and test center for the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK) by South Korea’s National Institute for International Education (NIIED), under the Ministry of Education.
With this recognition, Pune becomes the only city in Western India to host TOPIK, offering internationally recognized certification for students, professionals, and enthusiasts keen on studying or working in Korea. The IKC operates under the jurisdiction of the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Mumbai.
TOPIK, first introduced in 1997, is the Korean government’s official language proficiency test assessing reading, writing, and listening skills. Its certification is widely required for admissions to Korean universities, employment opportunities in Korean companies, visa procedures, and academic advancement. The test is divided into two categories — TOPIK I (beginner, Levels 1–2) and TOPIK II (intermediate to advanced, Levels 3–6) — with results valid for two years.
Earlier this year, the Indo-Korean Center Pune successfully hosted the 100th TOPIK test on May 11, 2025, and is now preparing for the 103rd edition scheduled on November 16, 2025. Each session will accommodate 200 candidates for both TOPIK I and II. Registration for the upcoming test opens on August 26, 2025, and closes on August 31, or until all seats are filled. Applications can be submitted online via the IKC website: https://justkiwa.in/index.php/topik/
Dr. Eunjoo Lim, Director, Indo-Korean Center & Director, King Sejong Institute Pune, under the Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism, Government of South Korea & Mr. Sanjib Ghatak, Founder, Indo-Korean Center, Pune, India, gave the information about TOPIK at the press conference.
Dr. Eunjoo Lim, Director of the Indo-Korean Center, said, “TOPIK is more than a language test — it is a key mechanism for developing the human capital needed to drive Korea–India collaboration across education, industry, and culture.”
The IKC also runs the King Sejong Institute Pune, which offers structured Korean language programs and cultural exchange events under the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Looking ahead, the center plans to expand TOPIK offerings to three sessions annually from 2026, alongside career-linked education programs and corporate collaborations.
With this milestone, Pune strengthens its role as a hub for Korean language education and cross-cultural exchange, opening new pathways for Indian learners to pursue opportunities in Korea.
