Asian Cultural Identity in Korea’s Multicultural Society: Focus on the Philippines

Abstract

This paper reviewed the literature regarding Korea’s multiculturalism progress as well as looking into the issue of integration of Filipinos in Korea. It was found out that like other migrant groups, there are Filipinos who migrated to Korea either for labor or marriage. The Korean government has enacted laws that protect the rights of immigrants. There are also non-governmental organization efforts to ensure the same. Marriage migrants have been given more attention at first, in terms of their assimilation, but had also started to move into integrating them into the Korean society. Filipinos are able to maintain their identity while in Korea as seen that they can freely associate with their fellow Filipinos and are not necessarily forced by the Korean society to shed off their Filipino identity. Comparison of the Korean and Filipino history, religion, family and community, as well as education was made. Historically, both Korea and the Philippines have been influenced by other countries and are currently experiencing political divisiveness. Also both countries practice shamanism, Catholicism and Protestantism. Both Korea and the Philippines put great importance to family, relationship with others and education. These very strong similarities will allow ease of cultural integration in Koreas Multicultural society in the future.