COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance Among Korean American Immigrants in the United States: A Qualitative Study.

Abstract

Immigrant populations in the United States are at increased risk of reduced COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Currently, no qualitative research focuses on COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among Korean American immigrants (KAIs). This phenomenological study aims to uncover needs, beliefs, and practices that may affect COVID-19 vaccine acceptance within this immigrant group. Twelve study participants answered 10 semi-structured interview questions. Inclusion criteria for participants are as follows: (a) above 18 years, (b) has immigrated from Korea, and (c) can understand and speak English. Interview data were analyzed using Colaizzi's data analysis method. Eight themes emerged from the study. Themes included apprehension and indifference, disruption of normalcy, patterns of acceptance, duty to protect, fear of contagion, perceived self-efficacy, relief and safety, and acceptance of new normal. Findings from this study can inform health care professionals of cultural factors related to COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and health promotion behaviors among the KAIs.