South Koreans demonstrate mixed attitudes toward foreign residents according to recent research from the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs. The study found that 96 percent of citizens accept immigrants at various social distances, while just 8 percent welcome them as family members. Survey data from 3,011 participants, aged 19 to 74, reveal acceptance patterns across different relationship levels.
Nearly 39 percent accept immigrants as neighbors, and 31 percent approve of them as workplace colleagues. About 18 percent consider immigrants potential close friends, but family integration remains limited. Younger adults, aged 19 to 34, show greater openness than older generations, with only 3 percent rejecting immigrants completely.
Senior citizens often display contradictory views, accepting immigrants in limited social contexts while rejecting intimate relationships. Refugee acceptance rates drop significantly compared to those of regular long-term visa holders. Less than 3 percent across all age groups accept refugees as potential family members.
Nearly 39 percent accept immigrants as neighbors, and 31 percent approve of them as workplace colleagues. About 18 percent consider immigrants potential close friends, but family integration remains limited. Younger adults, aged 19 to 34, show greater openness than older generations, with only 3 percent rejecting immigrants completely.
Senior citizens often display contradictory views, accepting immigrants in limited social contexts while rejecting intimate relationships. Refugee acceptance rates drop significantly compared to those of regular long-term visa holders. Less than 3 percent across all age groups accept refugees as potential family members.
