Understanding the perspectives on forests among migrants in Korea: Immigrants from China, Vietnam, and Mongolia

Abstract

Forest recreation activities, expected in the near future, have been suggested as a solution to the divisions and conflicts in the multicultural Korean society. This study conceptualizes the welfare function of forests that contributes to social integration. Forest recreation prevents social conflicts from turning into riots caused by all kinds of stress suffered by immigrants in Korea and, at the same time, plays a unique role of providing nonverbal services for the first generation struggling with communication. The study covered 50 married immigrants from Mongolia, China, and Vietnam under the individual interview method in three categories: natural exposure state, forest recreation behaviors, and attitudes toward forests and nature. The result shows a very positive attitude toward forest experiences and the possibility of social conflict resolution through forest recreation.