Psychological experience of international students in South Korea: a photovoice study
Creators: name: Tugu, Putri Ariella Rihi
name: Benu, Juliana Marlin Y.
name: Liem, Andrian
name: Kiling, Indra Yohanes
Publisher: name: Taylor & Francis
Year: 2025
Subjects: subject: Medicine
subject: Sociology
subject: FOS: Sociology
subject: Biological Sciences not elsewhere classified
subject: Science Policy
subject: Mental Health

description: The reason for studying abroad is not only about experiencing a new culture but also about getting a better and quality education. Amongst countries with the best education systems, South Korea is considered one of the top destinations for international students. When young people become international students, they are exposed to life experiences that produce psychological responses to the environment around them. This study explores international students’ psychological experiences while studying and living in South Korea. The photovoice approach is used to explore stories from participants through the photos they take. Five international students in South Korea participated in this study. Participants were asked to take pictures, interviewed, engaged in an online focus group, and participated in a photo dissemination session to ensure the complete participatory action research cycle. Thematic analysis was done to produce findings. It was found that international students in South Korea experienced various things related to campus life, social support, and changes in perspective. These findings highlight the importance of providing intrapersonal and social support for international students. <b>What is already known about this topic:</b>Studying abroad made international students’ mental health worse.International students in South Korea have grown over the years.There is little to no published peer-reviewed evidence that investigates international students’ psychological experiences using a participatory action research approach. Studying abroad made international students’ mental health worse. International students in South Korea have grown over the years. There is little to no published peer-reviewed evidence that investigates international students’ psychological experiences using a participatory action research approach. <b>What this topic adds:</b>Using participatory action research, the photovoice has captured international students’ voice and experience in academic and non-academic activities.A facilitating factor for improving the overall mental health of international students was identified, namely the help of local students.The benefits of cultural interaction are twofold, including for both Asian and non-Asian international students who are exposed to diverse cultures, which helps them gain a better understanding of society and reduce prejudices. Using participatory action research, the photovoice has captured international students’ voice and experience in academic and non-academic activities. A facilitating factor for improving the overall mental health of international students was identified, namely the help of local students. The benefits of cultural interaction are twofold, including for both Asian and non-Asian international students who are exposed to diverse cultures, which helps them gain a better understanding of society and reduce prejudices.