Korean Speech Contest in Pune Opens Global Career Opportunities for Students

PUNE, INDIA — The Indo-Korean Center King Sejong Institute Pune (operating under the King Sejong Institute Foundation, Ministry of Culture, Sports & Tourism of the Republic of Korea) successfully hosted its highly anticipated Korean Speech Contest on June 14, 2026.
The event commenced with a warm welcoming speech by Dr. Eunjoo Lim, Director of King Sejong Institute Pune, who commended the participants for their courage and dedication. She stated, “I hope this contest serves as a meaningful turning point for students to discover their unique strengths and envision their future career paths through the Korean language.”
The prestigious event was graced by the Honorable Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Mumbai, Yoo Dongwan, highlighting the growing diplomatic and cultural significance of Korean language education in Western India. The occasion was further attended by key dignitaries from various sectors, including Honggi Chai (Peaceful Unification Advisory Council), Taewon Bang (KB Kookmin Bank), S.H. Kang (Managing Director of ADT-India Pvt. Ltd.), and Mrs. Donghee Song (Principal of Korean School in Pune).
Based on the official themes designated by the King Sejong Institute Foundation—’Korean Language in My Life’ or ‘Why I Learn Korean’—the participants delivered 3-minute speeches entirely in Korean. After a highly competitive and rigorous internal screening process by the institute, 15 outstanding finalists took to the stage, showcasing exceptional linguistic proficiency, eloquence, and a deep emotional connection to Korean culture.
Following an intense evaluation, Sarah Patel secured the coveted first place, followed by Priyanka Ridhorkar in second place, and Aditi Arude in third. Komal Priyadarshani was awarded the consolation prize. The top four winners received official certificates and prizes, while the remaining 11 participants were honored with certificates of participation.
Notably, as the grand prize winner, Sarah Patel has earned a fully funded opportunity to participate in the ‘Outstanding Learner Invitation Program’ in South Korea, hosted by the King Sejong Institute Foundation. She will travel to Korea for an entire week to experience authentic Korean culture firsthand and tour significant historical and cultural landmarks.
A major highlight of this year’s contest was its direct impact on corporate recruitment. Representatives and executives from major Korean multinational enterprises operating in India were deeply impressed by the students’ fluent language skills, professional demeanour, and earnest attitude. In a significant development, several companies initiated immediate recruitment processes on-site for the institute’s students, transforming the cultural event into a gateway for high-profile global careers.
Sanjib Ghatak, Director of the Career Development Centre at the Indo-Korean Centre, remarked, “The immediate recruitment drive initiated by Korean corporations is a momentous achievement. It proves that proficiency in the Korean language is no longer just a hobby, but a powerful professional asset that offers our students a concrete platform to achieve greater dreams and career growth.”