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The Roles of Information Communication Technology in Translocal Embedding and Anchoring Among Thai Migrant Workers in South Korea

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This article uses the concepts of embedding, anchoring and translocality to investigate ICT use among Thai migrant workers in South Korea. Steering away from the dichotomy of migrants being either integrated or isolated in the host society, this article sheds light on embedding and anchoring beyond places of destination by focusing on the roles of ICT. We used a qualitative analysis of 86 interviews with Thai migrant workers and stakeholders, conducted during multi‐sited fieldwork in Thailand and South Korea. We find that ICT facilitates translocal embedding and anchoring as it functions as an information platform, an entry point to a co‐ethnic migrant community, a way to access markets and economic opportunities and a means of communication. Drawing from the results, we argue that ICT facilitates migrants in embedding and anchoring and practising their translocal life as connected migrants whose lives exist both at their destination and places of origin.

Source: Tijdschrift voor Economische en Sociale Geografie

DOI: 10.1111/tesg.70008

Authors: Reena Tadee, Patrick Sakdapolrak, Harald Sterly, Raffaella Pagogna

Institutions: University of Vienna, Mahidol University, Masaryk University

Language: English

Topic: Diaspora, migration, transnational identity

Subfield: Demography

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,730