A Study on the Influencing the Settlement of Foreign Scientists and Engineers in Korea

This study aims to analyze the factors influencing the settlement and successful integration of foreign science and technology professionals engaged in domestic R&D activities in Korea.The research problem highlights a stagnation in the number of foreign S&T professionals residing and settling in Korea over the past five years, as indicated by policy statistics.This trend is notable, especially given the increasing proportion of foreign inflow in other sectors.The central question this research addresses is why foreign S&T professionals face difficulties in settling and experience a higher rate of attrition.The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining statistical analysis and indepth interviews, to examine working conditions, research activities and career development, living environment, and welfare among foreign science and technology professionals residing in South Korea.The statistical analysis revealed that living conditions and welfare significantly impact settlement.Indepth interviews identified Korean language proficiency, research opportunities, and competitive compensation as key factors influencing settlement, regardless of institutional affiliation or length of stay.This study highlights policy measures to strengthen support systems that help foreign S&T professionals sustain their careers and grow as productive researchers in Korea.