Between Community Radio and Ethnic Media: A Study on the Identity of GBS FM in Gwangju Koryoin Village

GBS FM, a low-power community radio operated by the Koryoin Village in Gwangju, represents a unique case in South Korea, simultaneously maintaining the characteristics of a local community radio while functioning as an ethnic media outlet. With approximately 70% of its broadcasts conducted in Russian, GBS FM distinctly reflects the identity of the Koryoin, an ethnic Korean diaspora group from the former Soviet Union. This study examines the dual identity of GBS FM, analyzing its role both as a South Korean community radio and as an ethnic media platform predominantly operated by Russian-speaking Koryoin. The station’s Korean-language programming fosters social cohesion between the Koryoin community and native Korean residents while enhancing public awareness of the Koryoin presence. At the same time, by utilizing Russian as its primary broadcast language, GBS FM reinforces the unique identity of the Koryoin, distinguishing them from native Koreans. Through programs centered on Koryoin life histories and historical narratives, GBS FM plays a crucial role in preserving and transmitting Koryoin heritage and culture, not only to native Korean audiences but also to younger generations of Koryoin residing in South Korea.. Moreover, by leveraging online platforms for content dissemination, GBS FM transcends its role as a local community radio station to function as a transnational communication bridge, fostering connections between the Gwangju Koryoin Village and Koryoin communities abroad. As a media entity that navigates the intersection of community radio and ethnic media, GBS FM serves as a compelling case study of how media facilitate migrant integration, ethnic identity preservation, and the formation of transnational networks.