Designing a community-based dance programme for North Korean female refugees in South Korea

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a community-based dance programme designed for North Korean female defectors in South Korea, with the aim of promoting their physical, psychological, and interpersonal aspects. We set up four research objectives: to look into social contexts of North Korean female refugees in South Korea, to identify the women’s desire for dance experiences, to design dance classes for North Korean female refugees, and to conduct a pilot study. Based on their past and current situations and their wish to participate in dance practice, the class structure and content was developed, focusing on heightening self-awareness and stabilising mind and body; expressing their emotions and releasing psychological stresses; and enhancing their ability to interact with others. In order to assess the appropriateness and feasibility of the class structure and content, we carried out three sessions in a pilot study where twelve North Korean female refugees participated. As a result, this paper suggests the dance classes as a feasible education programme for North Korean defectors to advance their abilities to adjust to the new environment, thereby enabling them to perceive the self not as the Other in South Korean society.