The Experiences of Young Korean Immigrants: A Grounded Theory of Negotiating Social, Cultural, and Generational Boundaries

The experiences of young Korean immigrants in the U.S. were explored through in-depth interviews with 19 participants. The research method employed was Grounded Theory whereby data collection and analysis were conducted concurrently. Study findings indicated that the young immigrants engaged in the process of negotiating social, cultural, and generational boundaries in order to adapt in the new country. Several structural and personal factors were identified as salient conditions of the process. These findings will help health care professionals have a better understanding of how young immigrants adapt in their new environment and what structural and personal conditions play a main role in this adaptation.