From Seoul to Pune The Rise of Little Korea
The quiet lanes of Talegaon, an industrial hub on Pune’s outskirts, are witnessing a cultural transformation as South Korean expatriates increasingly make it their home. With manufacturing giants like Hyundai, steel major Posco, and food giant Lotte operating in the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) region, the influx of Korean professionals has led to the rise of a distinct ‘Little Korea’ in the city. According to the Korean Association in Pune, the city currently hosts around 1,000 Korean nationals, with a significant concentration in Talegaon, Chakan, and Ranjangaon, where electronics giant LG also has its operations. This growing community has brought with it not only economic activity but also a cultural imprint, seen in the rise of Korean restaurants, retail stores, and residential spaces tailored for expatriates.
At Hangang Resort, where Hyundai professionals reside, the landscape reflects an unmistakable Korean identity. From Jokgu—a traditional Korean foot volleyball game—to private dining spaces that cater to their reserved nature, the resort is a testament to how Koreans are shaping their environment to feel at home. The SooMooNan hotel, another Korean-only residential space, features familiar elements such as pool tables and vegetable gardens growing lettuce and spring onions, staples in Korean cuisine. Language remains a barrier between the Korean expatriates and the local Maharashtrian population, yet cultural exchanges are evident—while Indian hosts offer puran poli, their Korean guests introduce them to ramen and kimchi. The Seoul Store, one of the most visited Korean retail outlets, stocks essentials from miso paste to frozen meats, ensuring that the community can access familiar products even thousands of kilometres away from home.
The influx of South Korean businesses and professionals is not just a cultural shift but an economic boon for Pune. Hyundai Engineering and Construction India, for instance, employs 70% Korean engineers, many of whom previously worked in Chennai but prefer Pune for its climate and infrastructure. While younger Korean professionals integrate well with their Indian colleagues, cultural and professional differences persist—punctuality and discipline, rooted in Korea’s military background, often contrast with the more flexible Indian work environment. The impact extends beyond industries, with Korean families enrolling their children in international schools and senior executives favouring the Balewadi-Baner belt for residence. This demographic shift underscores Pune’s growing appeal as a global business destination, rivaling industrial hubs like Chennai and Noida in attracting international talent.
Sustainability is a crucial aspect of this evolving urban landscape. Korean expatriates bring with them a culture of environmental consciousness, evident in the meticulous cleanliness of their residential spaces and their preference for growing organic vegetables. This aligns with Pune’s broader sustainability goals, where rapid urbanisation demands innovative solutions for waste management and energy efficiency. As Korean investments continue to flow into the city, policymakers must ensure that this industrial boom does not come at the cost of environmental degradation. Smart urban planning, including green building initiatives and improved public transport infrastructure, will be vital in sustaining Pune’s growth while integrating diverse communities. The rise of ‘Little Korea’ is not just a cultural phenomenon—it is a testament to Pune’s evolving identity as an international industrial powerhouse, where economic development and sustainability must go hand in hand.
