Developing the Next Generation of India–Korea Leaders
The India–Korea Forum (IKF) is proud to launch the IKF NextGen Leadership Program—a flagship leadership and mentorship initiative designed to identify, nurture, empower, and connect the next generation of leaders who aspire to make a meaningful and positive impact in India, Korea, and the wider world through research, education, entrepreneurship, public policy, innovation, business, and social leadership.
The program aims to build a strong and vibrant community of students, researchers, young professionals, entrepreneurs, and aspiring leaders through personalized mentoring, leadership development, professional networking, and practical learning opportunities. Over the next five years, IKF seeks to cultivate a dynamic network of future leaders who will actively contribute to global collaboration and sustainable development in general, and to India–Korea cooperation in particular.
Our Vision
- To identify, nurture, and empower the next generation of leaders who will excel in academia, public policy, business, innovation, technology, social leadership, and global advocacy.
- To build a highly engaged and collaborative NextGen community that promotes lifelong learning, leadership development, and meaningful contributions to global cooperation in general, and India–Korea cooperation in particular.
- To develop 100 outstanding NextGen Leaders by 2030 through structured mentoring, leadership training, global networking, research opportunities, and real-world experience.
Who Can Apply?
The program welcomes:
- Undergraduate and postgraduate students
- Ph.D. scholars and researchers
- Young professionals
- Entrepreneurs and startup founders
- Korean language learners
- Individuals aspiring to become experts in India–Korea cooperation
- Professionals interested in Korea-related careers
- Anyone passionate about global cooperation and sustainable development
Current Program Tracks
1. Academic and Research Leadership
Led by Prof. Rajiv Kumar, this track is designed for students, researchers, Ph.D. applicants, and aspiring academics who wish to build expertise in Korea, East Asia, international relations, technology geopolitics, AI, Semiconductor, public policy, and related fields.
Participants will receive guidance on:
- Developing expertise in International Relations, International Political Economy, Technology Geopolitics, Development Studies, Korean and East Asian Studies, India–Korea Relations, Indo-Pacific Affairs, and the geopolitics and geoeconomics of AI, semiconductors, and emerging technologies.
- Building knowledge of Korea-related politics, economy, society, culture, public policy, business, and other contemporary issues.
- Research design, academic writing, and thesis/dissertation development
- Publishing in leading journals (SSCI, Scopus, and KCI), as well as policy briefs and opinion articles
- Conference presentations and building an international academic profile
2. Korea Career and Education Leadership
For students and young professionals planning to study, work, conduct research, or build long-term careers in South Korea.
3. Business and Entrepreneurship Leadership
For entrepreneurs, startup founders, MBA students, and professionals seeking business opportunities between India and Korea.
How to Apply
If you are interested in joining the IKF NextGen Leadership Program, please complete the registration Google Form using the link below or by scanning the QR code on the poster. After submitting the form, please send us a brief confirmation email.
Application Form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf-iJiJFzZGnMygYgQI0DNPbeSTQA_dE13J_EdGUi3Y4Bq5YQ/viewform?usp=publish-editor
📧 ikf.seoul@gmail.com
After reviewing all applications, the IKF team will contact shortlisted applicants with further details about the program and the next steps.