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ISSN : 1226-4822(Print)
The Sociolinguistic Journal of Korea Vol.34 No.2 pp.71-108
DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.14353/sjk.2026.34.2.03

A narrative inquiry into identity construction through Korean work experiences of highly educated international students: Focusing on Chinese master's degree holders in humanities and social sciences

Qin Wu
Ph.D. Candidate, School of Liberal Arts, Yonsei University; 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, South Korea

Abstract

Using narrative inquiry, this study explores the identity construction of three Chinese master's degree holders from humanities and social science backgrounds through their employment experiences in South Korea. The findings reveaedl two shared patterns: first, participants faced structural constraints including visa restrictions and language and cultural barriers, that shaped their identity negotiation strategies; second, despite these challenges, participants exercised agency to resist ascribed identities and construct more self-directed ones. At the same time, their identity trajectories differed considerably, reflecting the diversity of individual experiences within a shared social position. This study extends identity and language learning theories to workplace contexts and calls for more flexible visa policies, culturally responsive corporate support, and enhanced vocational Korean language education programs that reflect actual workplace discourse.

초록

Vol. 40 No. 4 (2022.12)

Journal Abbreviation j. Korea Saf. Manag. Sci.
Frequency Published four times annually in March, June, September, and December
Doi Prefix 10.14353/sjk.
Year of Launching 1993
Publisher The Sociolinguistic Society of Korea
Indexed/Tracked/Covered By

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