A Narrative Analysis of the Multiple Identity Negotiation Processes of Korean Americans and Their Study Abroad Experiences in Korea

This study aims to analyze how second-generation Korean Americans negotiated and shaped their unique identities during their childhood and adolescence in the United States, as well as how their study abroad experiences in Korea contributed to the formation of their multiple identities. The narratives of three individuals―Amy, David, and Paul―were reconstructed through narrative analysis. The findings reveal that their identity formation is dynamically shaped by various factors, including personal experiences, racial discrimination, transnational migration backgrounds, and cultural adaptation processes. Amy primarily established her identity as a “Korean American” through the Korean American community, but her study abroad experience in Korea did not significantly impact her cultural identity. David, drawing on his childhood in Korea and re-adaptation to the United States, developed a bilingual and bicultural identity, which was further reinforced by his study abroad experience and his decision to serve in the Korean military. Paul, recognizing that he does not fully belong to either the United States or Korea, practically integrates both cultural identities to maximize opportunities in both countries, shaping his career and life goals accordingly. This study provides insights into the complex identity negotiation processes of second-generation Korean Americans. Future research should delve deeper into the impact of parental migration backgrounds and family language policies on their identity development.(Myongji University)