Korean Epistemology and Qualitative Research: A Case Study on Centering Local Epistemologies in Qualitative Inquiry

This study examines how philosophical questions and discussions surrounding Korean epistemology can be reconstructed and created through qualitative research. Drawing upon Korea’s unique perspectives on human relationships and worldviews, it explores diverse discourses on knowledge and truth. Through a case-study approach, the author investigates the potential for qualitative researchers of varying cultural and historical heritage to expand their horizons and directions of qualitative inquiry. Illuminating the ontological dynamics of being and non-being within the multifaceted and in-depth discourses of Korean epistemology, it offers an example of what new versions of qualitative research are possible based on methodologies such as Suda, Dasan studies, seodang education, Wonhyo’s theory of hwa-jaeng, the Yeok-Gyeong [IChing], Donghak, to list several. Ultimately, this research will contribute to the advancement of new theoretical and methodological frameworks that enable local, Indigenous qualitative researchers to imagine their versions of qualitative inquiry inspired by Korean epistemology and research practices.