The Paradox of Sovereignty: ‘Functional Statelessness’ and the Administrative Exclusion of Zainichi Koreans under the ROK Resident Registration System

Key Points

• The study aims to explore the structural exclusion mechanisms affecting Zainichi Koreans under South Korea's registration system.
• Analyzed the interaction between Japan's Special Permanent Resident (SPR) status and South Korea's resident registration architecture.
• Investigated the historical context of Zainichi Koreans within the statutory framework.
• Critically examined the implications of administrative practices on their rights.
• Identified that the SPR leads to a functional statelessness for Zainichi Koreans under South Korean law.
• Highlighted the contradiction between legal obligations and the exclusionary practices faced by Zainichi Koreans.
• Demonstrated that the resident registration system limits access to welfare benefits for long-term Zainichi residents.