The Challenging Experiences of International Students in South Korea: The Neo-Racism Perspective

Abstract

Studying abroad is one of the significant life-changing decisions of many traditional-age students. Due to the ideas of globalisation and pop-culture development, South Korea becomes one of the popular destinations for tertiary education. Based on the conception of neo-racism, many international students may face discrimination due to their nationalities, religious practices, spoken languages, place of origin, gender, and personal characteristics. The purpose of this study is to investigate and understand the challenges and difficulties of international students in South Korea. The study was guided by one research question, which was, based on the perspective of neo-racism theory. How would international students who are currently enrolled at one of the South Korean universities and graduate schools describe their challenges and difficulties as foreigners? Based on the phenomenological approach, 100 participants who are currently enrolled at one of the South Korean universities and graduate schools were invited to share their life stories through individual interview, item sharing, and focus group activities. The results indicated that nationalities, place of origin, religious practice, personal characteristics, and sexism are some of the significant elements and challenges as foreigners and international students in South Korea. The outcomes of this study suggested that the government agencies should coordinate with the school leaders, local community offices, NGOs, and researchers to reform and polish their current policies and regulations for international students and professionals to overcome the challenges. More importantly, the Ministry of Education and school leaders should promote appropriate education schemes and programmes for intercultural understanding and education.