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Kim and Kim: Adaptation Experiences in South Korea of Men defecting from North Korea
Original Article

Journal of Korean Academy of Nursing 2013; 43(3): 431-441.

Published online: 28 June 2013

DOI: https://doi.org/10.4040/jkan.2013.43.3.431

Adaptation Experiences in South Korea of Men defecting from North Korea

Kyoung Mi Kim1, Miyoung Kim2

1Department of Nursing, Gimcheon University, Gimcheon, Korea.

2Division of Nursing Science, College of Health Sciences, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea.

Address reprint requests to: Kim, Miyoung. Division of Nursing Science, College of Health Sciences, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-750, Korea. TEL: +82-2-3277-6694, FAX: +82-2-3277-2850, mykim0808@ewha.ac.kr

Received 22 February 2013       Accepted 20 May 2013

© 2013 Korean Society of Nursing Science

Abstract

Purpose

The study was done to explore meanings and essence of the experience in South Korea of men defectors from North Korea.

Methods

Data were collected from March, 2011 to May, 2012, through in-depth interviews with ten men defectors. Data analysis was conducted using the process of hermeneutic phenomenological reflection.

Results

Eight essential themes were extracted; 'buoyant expectation for a new life', 'feeling guilty about family left behind in North Korea', 'inability to become acclimatized due to communication difficulties', 'inability to socialize with South Koreans due to different lifestyles', 'finding strength through trustworthy acquaintances', 'continuing reconciliation with oneself while trying to assimilate into South Korean culture', 'self-realization of one's original self', and 'continuing to feel out the possibility of a future in South Korea'.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that North Korean men who defect to South Korea shape their identity through three phases: forming self-image during escape from North Korea, trying to become accustomed to South Korean society, and finding their own identity by self-realization of their original self. Eventually, the whole process enables them to recover their identity, to feel a sense of belonging, and to discover possibilities for a better future.

Keywords: Adaptation, Experiences, Qualitative research, Refugees

Figures and Tables

Table 1
The Essential Themes Experienced by North Korean Defectors in South Korea
jkan-43-431-i001

Notes

This manuscript is a condensed form of the first author's doctoral dissertation from Ewha Womans University.

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