– Pulkit Sharma, Assistant Professor of Korean Department of Language, Culture & Society (LCS), SRM Institute of Science and Technology

In today’s globalised world, language is no longer just a tool for communication—it is a strategic asset. The growing interest in the Korean language across India reflects more than a cultural trend; it signals a shift in how academic, economic, and professional partnerships are being built with South Korea. If India aims to strengthen its global academic presence, language education—particularly Korean—must be taken seriously.

Pulkit Sharma, Assistant Professor of Korean in the Department of Language, Culture & Society (LCS) at SRM Institute of Science and Technology, believes that the growth of Korean language education is helping Indian students access international opportunities. According to him, language skills today are important not only for cultural exchange but also for higher education, research, and employment.

The popularity of Korean language programmes in Indian universities is increasing for several reasons, including the global influence of Korean culture, South Korea’s leadership in technology and innovation, and the growing presence of Korean companies in India. However, one simple truth remains: without language, connections remain limited; with language, they become meaningful.

Another significant benefit of learning Korean is enhanced career prospects. As Sharma explains, Korean language proficiency can open doors to careers in multinational corporations, translation and interpretation, international business, academia, and diplomacy. With increasing South Korean investment in India, there is a growing demand for professionals who understand both the language and the culture. This makes language learning not just advantageous but essential.

Some institutions are already taking proactive steps in this direction. At SRM Institute of Science and Technology, first-year B.Tech students are learning Korean alongside their technical subjects. Under the leadership of Dr. L. Kavitha Nair, Professor and Head of the Department of Language, Culture & Society (LCS), such initiatives are preparing students for international careers and enabling them to engage with the global community from an early stage.

Student exchange programmes between India and South Korea further demonstrate the importance of language proficiency. While many opportunities are available, students benefit significantly when they can understand and use the local language. It helps them adapt more easily, communicate effectively, and gain a deeper educational experience. Similarly, academic collaborations between universities depend on strong communication. Research partnerships, faculty exchanges, and joint projects become more productive when there is clear understanding between stakeholders. Korean language programmes play a vital role in facilitating these connections.

In conclusion, the Korean language is more than just an academic subject—it is a bridge to better education, expanded career opportunities, and stronger international partnerships. For India, the challenge is no longer recognising its importance but acting swiftly to harness its full potential.

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