Unveiling Protective and Risk Factors: Korean Immigrants and Korean Americans in the Southeastern United States and Their Encounters with Discrimination During the COVID-19 Pandemic

PURPOSE: = 355), a region shaped by a historically entrenched Black - White racial order and a growing Asian population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants completed a survey assessing discrimination during the pandemic, including any discrimination and "blatant" incidents (e.g. threats or harassment). Poisson regression models estimated associations with English proficiency, social support, self-rated health, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and an English proficiency × ACEs interaction. RESULTS: = .042), indicating that the association between English proficiency and discrimination varied by ACEs level. DISCUSSION: Discrimination was widespread in this sample, with a notable share reporting blatant events. Social support and health may be protective, whereas childhood adversity may heighten vulnerability and shape how English proficiency relates to discrimination exposure. CONCLUSION: Anti-Asian discrimination warrants focused attention in the southeastern United States. Interventions that strengthen social support, expand culturally competent healthcare, and increase community awareness may help mitigate discrimination and related harms.