A Critical Discourse Analysis of North Korean Defector Students’ Navigation of Social Capital and Habitus in South Korean Education

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Thursday 9:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Cultural Issues in International Curricular Framing and Materials

Abstract

This study explores the lived experiences of North Korean defector students within South Korean education, with a focus on how these students navigate their social positionalities, cultural practices, and values in relation to broader social and political contexts. The findings suggest that the linguistic and cultural differences between North and South Korea are tied to identity, sense of belonging, and discrimination. This challenges the dominant narratives in South Korean textbooks and curricula that emphasize the shared language of the two Koreas—the experiences of North Korean defectors significantly conflict with this premise. We argue that without acknowledging these differences and tensions, it remains challenging to foster discussion and create an inclusive and equitable environment for diverse students.

Authors

• Inui Kim, Seoul National University

• Younkyung Hong, Ball State University