J Korean Acad Fundam Nurs.  2025 Feb;32(1):45-58. 10.7739/jkafn.2025.32.1.45.

Experiences in Healthcare Management among International Students Living in Korea

• Kim J
• Oh SM
• Lee DY

• KMID: 2565325
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7739/jkafn.2025.32.1.45

Abstract

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to explore and deeply understand the essential meaning of international students' healthcare management experiences in Korea.
Methods
This study applied Colaizzi‘s phenomenological research method to identify the meanings and needs related to health care management experienced by international students during their academic stay in Korea. Data were collected through unstructured interviews, in which open-ended questions were asked to 12 international students. The interviews were conducted from May 10, 2024, to the end of July 2024, followed by an analysis based on Colaizzi’s six-step approach. The criteria set by Lincoln and Guba were used to enhance the reliability and validity of qualitative research.
Results
Regarding the meaning of international students' healthcare management experiences in Korea, this study identified four categories, 11 themes, 27 sub-themes, and 108 significant statements. The four categories of international students' health care management experiences were: “neglecting health care management due to unresolved economic difficulties,” “choosing better healthcare management options than those in their home country,” “acquiring a new perspective on healthcare management during their stay in Korea,” and “suggesting directions for improvement and expectations based on their healthcare management experiences in Korea.” This study enabled an understanding of health management practices, with implications for ensuring the successful academic lives of international students.
Conclusion
This study implies that a deep understanding of international students' healthcare management experiences would contribute to the development of effective health promotion policies and programs for them in the future.

Keyword

Health care utilization; Internationality; Life experiences; Qualitative research; Students; 건강관리 추구, 외국인, 경험, 질적연구, 학생