Study Tour to South Korea (Report from a South Korean student volunteer)

I participated as an interpreter in a study tour to South Korea from October 31st to November 3rd, 2009, and gained a variety of experiences.

The image of South Korea grappling with the issue of immigrants was a novel one, different from the South Korea I had previously perceived. It seemed that these immigrants had established their lives in South Korea, deeply rooted in Korean society. However, I also observed the existence of various factors, such as South Korea's political situation and the prejudices of ordinary citizens, that prevent immigrants from living happy lives there. I was surprised to learn that organizations supporting immigrants in such hardship exist in South Korea, and I felt ashamed of my own ignorance regarding the circumstances of immigrants in South Korea. While the current situation in South Korea is difficult for both immigrants and support organizations, their activities, and the many smiles I saw, offered a glimmer of hope for resolving the issue of immigrants in South Korea.

Through APFS and this study tour, I was able to learn about a wide range of things that I could not have known while I was in Korea. I sincerely hope that this tour will be a big step forward for both Japan and Korea to cooperate in order to become countries where immigrants can live happy lives.