An Analysing of the Trend of Qualitative Research on North Korean defectors career

The purpose of this study was to analyze the trends in qualitative research on the career paths of North Korean defectors, examine them, and provide implications for future research. A cross-search was conducted in domestic research databases, including the Korea Studies Information Service System (KISS) and the National Assembly Library, using the keywords "North Korean defectors," "settlers," "career," and "occupation." A total of 20 qualitative research papers were selected, and a framework for analysis was established. The analysis included basic information (such as research sources, the number of papers by year, general characteristics of research participants, and researcher disciplines), the design status of qualitative research methods, and the content of the studies. The summary of the results is as follows: first, Yearly Analysis: Although intermittent, the publication of qualitative research on the career paths of North Korean defectors has been steadily ongoing. Second, Analysis by Qualitative Research Methods: Grounded theory was the most commonly used qualitative research method, and the majority of the researchers specialized in education. Thirdly, the change in topics indicates that the themes related to the career paths of North Korean defectors have shifted from simple employment to a broader focus, emphasizing individual career experiences and the meanings attached to them. Based on the results of this study, implications for expanding qualitative research on the career paths of North Korean defectors and suggestions for future research were provided.