Recognizing users with disabilities in inclusive physical activity facilities: Insights from Axel Honneth’s theory of recognition

This study investigated how people with disabilities experience discriminatory gazes and institutional marginalization as users of inclusive physical activity facilities in South Korea, which are shared by people with and without disabilities. Using Axel Honneth’s concept of the struggle for recognition, the study also examined the rights that people with disabilities seek to have acknowledged in this context. A qualitative narrative analysis was conducted based on seven in-depth interviews with participants. The analysis showed that users with disabilities sought recognition of their rights at three levels: personal, institutional, and sociocultural. They expected such recognition to improve their self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-esteem. However, policies governing physical activity for people with disabilities, developed mainly by non-disabled officials, created obstacles to realizing these rights. To address these barriers, physical activity and welfare institutions must be reformed to reflect the perspectives of users with disabilities. In addition, inclusive physical activity facilities should promote social integration and mutual recognition between people with and without disabilities, thereby creating broader social value.