Cultural adaptation of 1.5- and second-generation Koreans in Australia

Abstract This study investigated a comprehensive profile of 55 1.5- and second-generation Koreans living in Australia in terms of cultural adaptation (i.e., sociocultural adjustment and psychological well-being), acculturation strategies and individual background. In particular, through a survey, this study focused on the relationships among the variables (i.e., acculturation strategies, cultural adaptation, and individual background) and the factors that influence cultural adaptation. Overall, the participants showed a high level of adjustment to Australian society and good mental health. Their preferred acculturation strategy was integration, and they maintained Korean as their heritage language quite well. Self-rated Korean language proficiency was identified as an influencing factor for sociocultural adjustment and psychological well-being, indicating the importance of heritage language maintenance and education for 1.5- and second-generation Koreans. English language proficiency or majority language proficiency was a contributing factor for sociocultural adjustment, while marginalization had a negative effect on mental health. Implications and suggestions for improving the sociocultural adjustment of 1.5- and second-generation Koreans in Australia while maintaining good mental health are discussed.