Overview
Pune, June 3, 2026: Pimpri Chinchwad University (PCU), in collaboration with the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency (KOSME), successfully inaugurated the KOSME Pune Base Camp and unveiled its signboard at a special ceremony held on the university campus. The initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening India–Korea collaboration across innovation, entrepreneurship, industry engagement, and academic partnerships.
The event witnessed the presence of distinguished dignitaries from Korea and India, including Mr. Dongwan Yoo, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Mumbai; Mr. SuSok Park, Regional Director, Northeast Asia & ASEAN, KOSME; Mr. JaeKyeong Lee, Managing Director, KOSME GBC New Delhi; Mr. Yong Yoon, Chief Trade Representative, KITA; and Mr. Seungchang Ha, Director, New Delhi Office, CEPA.
The ceremony was presided over by Shri Harshwardhan S. Patil, Chancellor, PCU and Trustee, PCET, in the presence of Dr. Girish Desai, Executive Director, PCET, and Dr. Santosh Sonawane, Vice Chancellor, PCU.
The event commenced with a warm welcome to the distinguished guests and an overview of the growing partnership between PCU and KOSME. During his address, Mr. Dongwan Yoo emphasized the importance of the Pune Base Camp as a strategic step in expanding economic cooperation between India and Korea. He acknowledged KOSME's role in supporting Korean SMEs worldwide and expressed confidence that the Pune Base Camp would emerge as a strong platform for fostering business and innovation partnerships.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. SuSok Park highlighted the vision behind establishing the Base Camp and its role in supporting Korean enterprises exploring opportunities in India. He noted that Pune's strong industrial ecosystem, particularly in manufacturing, engineering, and automotive sectors, makes it an ideal location for deeper Korea–India collaboration.
In his presidential address, Shri Harshwardhan S. Patil underscored the importance of global partnerships in advancing the vision of a developed India. He highlighted PCU's commitment to industry-integrated education and emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing, and Industry 4.0. He expressed optimism that the KOSME Pune Base Camp would serve as a catalyst for innovation, research, entrepreneurship, and international collaboration.
Dr. Santosh Sonawane, Vice Chancellor of PCU, reflected on the university's sustained efforts to build meaningful partnerships with Korean institutions and industries. He outlined several collaborative initiatives already underway, including Korean language training, faculty exchange programs, industry-focused skill development, startup support, product testing opportunities for Korean SMEs, and joint academic engagements.
A special presentation by Ms. Yujin Han showcased the journey leading to the establishment of the KOSME Pune Base Camp. The presentation highlighted key milestones, beginning with the signing of the first Memorandum of Understanding in September 2025, followed by student training initiatives, industry interactions, discussions with MIDC, and engagement with Korean companies operating in the region.
The event also featured presentations by students who successfully completed the Korea Business Culture Program, a six–week training initiative conducted at PCU. Students shared their experiences of learning about Korean business practices, workplace culture, communication styles, and global professional expectations through practical projects and immersive activities.
Representing Mr. P. Velrasu, IAS, CEO, MIDC, officials conveyed their appreciation for the initiative and reaffirmed Maharashtra's commitment to supporting Korean investments and strengthening bilateral industrial cooperation.
The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of the KOSME Pune Base Camp signboard and the felicitation of distinguished guests. The launch of the Base Camp establishes a dedicated platform for fostering collaboration between Korean businesses, Indian industry, academia, startups, and government stakeholders.
With this initiative, PCU further strengthens its position as a globally connected university committed to creating meaningful opportunities for students, researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry partners while contributing to the growing India–Korea partnership.
