A Qualitative Case Study on Chinese International Students’ Life Experience in Korean Universities

Objectives This study attempted to present implications for the management of foreign students in Korean university institutions and the government's direction of attracting excellent international students by revealing the characteristics of Chinese international students' life and experiences in Korean universities. Methods To this end, a qualitative case study was conducted on 5 Chinese international students. Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and literature review, and the characteristics of the life experiences of Chinese international students were analyzed through the process of coding and categorizing the collected data. Finally, in order to secure the validity of the study, the research results were reviewed and confirmed by participants and third parties. Results As a result of the study, it was found that Chinese international students in Korea decided to study abroad to acquire and succeed in obtaining academic background in terms of admission and chose a prestigious school within the range of admission. As it is difficult to understand and express Korean in terms of instruction, they cannot adapt to the class and prefer a passive purpose-oriented relationship. In addition, it was found that in terms of life, they prefer individual-oriented life rather than participating in school activities. Conclusions It is necessary to prepare a counseling center for universities and majors before admission to help Chinese international students adapt to Korean university life, and Korean language classes specialized in each major are needed to help with difficulties caused by language skills. It is also necessary to prepare an environment and conditions to activate exchanges with Korean students and to provide accurate and detailed guidance on their foreign students life.