Social Adjustment for Undocumented Migrant Workers in South Korea: Role of Religious Institutions

This study explores the difficulties faced by undocumented migrant workers in the context of a lack of institutional welfare support. The study then explores the role that religious institutions play in the social adjustment of undocumented migrant workers to difficult life situations. In order to explore the social adjustment of undocumented migrant workers, we conducted observational field work and in-depth interviews of undocumented migrant workers and Buddhist and Christian social welfare service providers. We found that faith-based organizations with their own purposes and goals are active in social service delivery for undocumented migrant workers. Undocumented migrant workers have been supported by religious institutions through improvements to their work-related quality of life and to their living conditions. The study finds that support from faith-based organizations is structured within the principles of the organization’s religion, and social services are limited to what falls within these boundaries.