Pune's Indo-Korean Center Recognized for Korean Language Proficiency Test

Pune: The Indo-Korean Center (IKC) in Pune has received a significant accolade by being designated as an official center for the Test of Proficiency in Korean (TOPIK). This recognition comes from South Korea’s National Institute for International Education, providing a boon to Korean language enthusiasts in the region.

Pune is now the exclusive city in western India to host the TOPIK test, which offers internationally recognized certification vital for students and professionals aspiring to study or work in Korea. The IKC, operating under the jurisdiction of the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Mumbai, was highlighted in an announcement made on Wednesday.

Launched in 1997, TOPIK serves as the Korean government’s official language proficiency evaluation, assessing skills in reading, writing, and listening.

The certification is essential for those seeking admission to Korean universities, employment in Korean firms, visa procedures, and further academic pursuits. The test comprises two categories: TOPIK I (beginner, Levels 1–2) and TOPIK II (intermediate to advanced, Levels 3–6), with results valid for two years.

The IKC's centers across other cities have cumulatively administered over 100 TOPIK tests. Pune's center is preparing for its 103rd edition on November 16. Each test session will accommodate up to 200 candidates for both TOPIK I and II categories. Registration for the upcoming test begins on August 26, 2025, closing on August 31, or when all seats are filled. Applicants can register online through the IKC website: https://justkiwa.in/index.php/topik.

Dr. Eunjoo Lim, Director of the Indo-Korean Center, stated, “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 oversees the King Sejong Institute Pune, providing structured Korean language programs and cultural exchange events under the guidance of the Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism.