A Case Study of Korean Diaspora in Austria

The purpose of this study is to examine the Korean community in Austria, which began forming in the 1970s. Currently, there are about twenty known Korean organizations in Austria. This study specifically focuses on the Korean Literature-Friends-Club in Austria to gain a deeper understanding of the transnational experiences of people with Korean roots living in Austria. The findings are based on in-depth interviews, direct observation, published materials, social media, and previous research. Established in 2012, the Korean Literature-Friends-Club was formed by individuals interested in literature and writing, reflecting on their experiences in Korea as well as their immigration to and early years in Austria. Key members of the group are Koreans who emigrated to Europe in the 1960s and 1970s as nurses. Since publishing its first issue in 2013, the group has continued to release a collection of works every two years and organize literary events, serving as a cultural bridge between their host and home countries.