conflict in everyday life
The aspect in which immigrant women experience the most cultural
differences from Korea and associated difficulties is the economic
aspect. The reason for their decision to come to Korea is basically
because Korea is wealthier economically and this can be seen as an
acknowledgment that Korea is wealthier than their country economically.
Even, in reality, it has been revealed that most immigrant people think
that Korea is an easier place to earn money than their country.
My family and friends were all very happy when I said that I would go to
Korea because Korea is richer and has a better image than China. But
when I came here, it was hard to live. Although they make more money in
their daily lives than in China, they tend to live economically
difficult lives in Korea because they have to reduce their living costs.
(participant 6)
Korea came to Korea to raise money for its two sons’ education because
it is freer and easier to make money than Vietnam. Prices in Vietnam
have risen more than before, and private education costs are as high as
in Korea. That’s why Vietnamese people are coming to Korea. Making money
in Korea is much better than making money in Vietnam. That’s why I’m
here. (participant 8)
It was found that immigrant women lived in Korea and experienced
institutional discrimination or interpersonal alienation. They
especially experienced the tendency and cultural characteristics of
Koreans who care about their age in the workplace, and some participants
were struggling with the situation where they were alienated.
In Korea, people care a lot about their age. It seems like you’re trying
to decide on a relationship by asking your age all of a sudden even
though you’re doing a small job. To be honest, I think it depends on the
position you work for rather than your age. Anyway, I was a little older
at first, so I benefited from this culture (participant 2)
I think Koreans ignore Filipinos. When I buy things at the store, I
speak informally, and even when I talk to Korean people, they keep a
distance. So I was a little lonely. But now I feel a little better after
seeing you often. Of course, I am indeed more lonely in Korea now than
when I was in the Philippines. (participant 9)