Work

The Factors Affecting Acculturative Stress Among International Students in South Korea

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study uses a mixed methods approach to explore the factors affecting international students in South Korea, focusing on the acculturative conditions of student experiences. For the quantitative aspect, 126 students participated, and 22 students took part in the qualitative research. The findings of the quantitative analysis revealed that male Uzbeks of the sample population who have been in Korea for more than 3 years reported a significant lack of interest in learning about Korean culture. These individuals were also likely to say that they were not in a supportive environment and were not treated fairly compared to Korean students. Qualitative analysis revealed how cultural adaptability and linguistic investment were deciding factors of acculturative stress. This paper offers crucial documentation of how specific international students, such as Uzbekistan nationals, have experienced acculturative stress in South Korea, influencing their decision to reject aspects of Korean society.

Source: SAGE Open

DOI: 10.1177/21582440251382866

Authors: Christina Dahee Jung, Cyril Reyes

Institutions: Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: International Student and Expatriate Challenges

Subfield: Communication

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,600