A Qualitative Study on the Parenting Experiences of North Korean Refugee Mothers with Early Childhood Children

Objectives: In line with the fourth basic plan for the settlement support of North Korean Refugees (2024–2026), this study explores the multifaceted parenting experiences of North Korean refugee mothers raising preschool-aged children in South Korea. The aim is to provide an in-depth understanding of how these mothers respond to their children's diverse developmental needs, moving beyond previous research that focused on their health and service-use challenges.Methods: This study used a qualitative approach, conducting in-depth individual interviews with ten North Korean refugee mothers residing in the Seoul metropolitan area. A semi-structured interview format was used to explore parenting beliefs, intergenerational practices, and the impact of the defection process. The interview data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis approach with MAXQDA software.Results: The analysis identified five main themes, eleven sub-themes, and thirty-two meaning units. Participants reflected on their own childhoods while facing difficulties in responding to their children’s developmental needs. Despite these challenges, they showed resilience by drawing on internal strengths and support from government and community resources, which facilitated their cultural adaptation. They also expressed a strong commitment to forming positive parenting beliefs for their children's healthy development.Conclusion: By focusing on early childhood, this study offers meaningful insights into how North Korean refugee mothers establish a foundation for parenting. The findings show how they support their families’ successful adaptation to South Korean society while addressing their children's diverse developmental needs. This research is expected to provide a valuable basis for developing tailored support measures for North Korean refugee families.