Permalink : http://hdl.handle.net/2115/83522

JaLCDOI : 10.14943/ebr.8.1.109

Since 2000 there has been a significant increase in the number of women migrating to South Korea. This is part of a global trend towards the feminization of migration. International marriages are currently one of the most important forms of permanent migration to Korea. However, some international marriages are coerced, exploitative and involve the trafficking of women. Engaging with theory on migration, this paper examines the dynamics of international marriages in Korea. I argue that a focus on migrants’ agency should not obscure the constraints facing many women. Based on interviews with women in international marriages, the paper examines some of the legal restrictions on the women and considers ways to improve their situation.