An anallysis of push and pull factors in the migration of Koreans to Thailand : a case study of members of the Korean in Chiangmai province

Abstract

At present, the migration of Koreans to Thailand, especially in Chiang Mai Province, has been gradually increased. This research aimed to analyze the push factors in Korea and pull factors in Chiang Mai Province in the migration of Koreans, as well as, to investigate living conditions and quality of life that affected their migratory decision. Population in this research was Koreans who registered themselves as a member of the Chiang Mai Korean Association and has been resided in Chiang Mai for more than 90 days. Most of the data received from the questionnaires completed by Koreans for 190 copies. A majority of these Koreans are female, aged between 31-40 years old. They mostly have a married status, hold a bachelor’s degree education and believe in Christianity. According to the research, it was found that these Koreans have ever come to Thailand before, with the purpose of tourism. They then migrate to Chiang Mai by economic pull factors in some categories, especially the difference in cost of living. Social factors partially influenced the migration in moderate level, while political and environmental factors influenced their decision in the moderate level as well. In terms of living conditions and quality of life, it was found that these Koreans have been resided in Chiang Mai for more than 5 years and they would further their stay as long as they need. However, they mostly pursued a non-working condition. Source of income and expense were mostly sent from their family members in Korea. Moreover, most of them are satisfied with a low cost of living and a quality of life in Chiang Mai. Also, they usually have a meeting reunion accordingly.