Leiden University Student Repository

Kole, Yi-Lin (2024)

Navigating Identity: A Qualitative Study of Korean Adoptees in The Netherlands

Bachelor thesis | Koreastudies (BA)

Analysing the implications of intercountry adoption from Korea to the Netherlands, reveals the complex identity navigation of Korean adoptees. Korea has been a prominent sending country in the recent past, increasing the number of children who grew up in a different ethnic environment. To navigate and construct their sense of belonging, Korean adoptees embark on a journey in which they explore various sides of themselves. The findings reveal that their ethnic exploration is underdeveloped at first due to assimilation and colour-blindness within Dutch society. They faced significant identity challenges by growing up in a predominantly White environment. However, as they grew older, most adoptees attempted to reconcile with their heritage through cultural practices, empowering themselves with a unique sense of belonging due to embodying a hybrid identity. This thesis highlights the importance of racial sensitivity and open discussions within the context of a multicultural society....Show moreAnalysing the implications of intercountry adoption from Korea to the Netherlands, reveals the complex identity navigation of Korean adoptees. Korea has been a prominent sending country in the recent past, increasing the number of children who grew up in a different ethnic environment. To navigate and construct their sense of belonging, Korean adoptees embark on a journey in which they explore various sides of themselves. The findings reveal that their ethnic exploration is underdeveloped at first due to assimilation and colour-blindness within Dutch society. They faced significant identity challenges by growing up in a predominantly White environment. However, as they grew older, most adoptees attempted to reconcile with their heritage through cultural practices, empowering themselves with a unique sense of belonging due to embodying a hybrid identity. This thesis highlights the importance of racial sensitivity and open discussions within the context of a multicultural society. Lastly, it is crucial that adoptees feel empowered to embrace and find solace in every aspect of their adoption.Show less

intercountry adoption, Korean adoptees, identity disruption, hybrid identity, identity exploration

Author

Kole, Yi-Lin

Faculty

Faculty of Humanities

Supervisors

Park, J.H.

ECTS Credits

10

Language

en