전라북도의 이민자 사회통합에 대한 연구

Abstract

This study aims to lay the foundation for social integration through an analysis of the immigrant situation in Jeollabuk-do. As of 2022, the number of registered foreigners in Jeollabuk-do is 34,941, and foreign nationals of Korean descent total 3,717, amounting to 38,658 residents. This figure represents a 166.5% increase compared to 2011. The major countries of origin for immigrants are Vietnam, China, and Nepal, with a particularly high number of immigrants in the 25-34 age range. Jeollabuk-do has been supporting the stable settlement of immigrants through various immigration-related ordinances, with a focus on policies for marriage immigrants, multicultural families, and foreign students. Additionally, an administrative support system and diverse infrastructure have been established to help foreign residents adapt to local communities. However, there are areas for improvement, such as the absence of an independent immigrant advisory body. A survey of the attitude of Jeollabuk-do residents toward immigrant acceptance revealed a still conservative stance on the acceptance of migrants in the workplace. Meanwhile, the Korean language proficiency of immigrants is generally above average, and their use of digital devices is notably active, particularly with smartphones. This study presents policy directions for the social integration of immigrants in Jeollabuk-do and provides foundational data for the continuous development of region-specific visas and immigrant support systems in the future.