An intersectionality and hope-based career development model for female international marriage immigrants in Korea

Abstract

Since the late 1990s, Korea has been experiencing a trend of international immigration with a dramatic increase in international females moving primarily from less-developed southeast Asian countries to marry Korean men. This growth in marriage immigrants has resulted in social and cultural change, and a diverse workplace. Appropriate career development models or theories for this population are lacking. Such a model or theory is needed to reflect their burdens when it comes to career development. The purpose of this study was to develop a conceptual model of career development for female international marriage immigrants to Korea through the use of intersectionality and hope theory. Particularly, an individual’s positive psychological perspective based on hope theory was emphasized. The resultant model may also apply to other developed countries in southeast Asia.