"We Can Change our Society": Korean College Student Activists' Motivations, Experiences, and Perceptions

Abstract

Abstract: Student activism plays an important role in student development, so understanding student activists' thoughts, identifying challenges they have encountered, and figuring out ways to support their activities are critical for higher education institutions. A group of college students in Korea has established a student organization actively engaging in varying ways to address the Japanese military sexual slavery (so-called "comfort women") issue. This study examined the motivations, experiences, and perceptions of Korean college students actively participating in this work. Using a case study research design, in-depth, open-ended, semi-structured interviews with 10 organization members were collected and analyzed thematically. Relevant documents showing their various activities were also collected as supplementary data for better understanding of the context. Participants' desire for engagement, the benefits they gained from the KorPeaceWomen activities (i.e., personal growth, sense of solidarity, and awareness of other issues), and overcoming challenges show their development. However, it is necessary to consider the cultural, historical, social, and political contexts in Korea to fully understand their challenges and concerns as student activists. The findings may help us understand student activists' motives, concerns, and needs and explore their engagement as a form of development.