A study on the identity of Korean descendants in Germany

Abstract

Koreans immigrants in Germany constitute a relatively small, and, as a result, the topic has not been extensively researched. Previous studies focused primarily on the history of Korean immigrants and communities, as well as the establishment of migration systems. This study is limited to Korean descendants in Germany, and the focus is directed at the identity. It should be noted that this study includes only Korean descendants within the age range of 18 to 39. The aim of the study is to investigate the needs and views of Korean descendants in Germany. In order to study the question of how identity integration is formed, an analysis is conducted regarding the impact that various characteristics, including potentially restrictive ones, exert upon the formation of identity integration. The dependent variable is identity integration’; the estimates are derived from three binary logistic regression models. Identity integration is significantly predicted by second-generation status, nationality and gender. Identity is related to nationality status: if an individual possesses dual nationality, he or she may more easily develop identity integration (dual identity). It is true that revisions of nationality law in both countries have occurred recently, yet these have been of admittedly limited scope. Amendments to these laws did not, at any rate, apply to the respondents of this study. During their youth in Germany, the cultural distance was great; since then, however, differences between the respective cultures have diminished markedly. The physical features, however, remain very different and psychologically salient. As a result, it is difficult for many Korean descendants to feel a split affiliation between Germany and Korea, let alone an exclusive attachment to Germany. The common statement“I have a German passport, but I am Korean”is an expression that highlights the fact that legal status differs from subjective identity.