Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate the information needs, information seeking behavior, and information use of people who seek information on Korea overseas. A total of 382 survey responses from 52 countries and in-depth interview data from 26 participants were collected and analyzed. As a result, the respondents were categorized into three groups, namely Hallyu culture enjoyment, Korean language learning, and Korean studies research groups, by their unique information needs and information seeking behaviors. Pandemic boosted the demand for digital data expansion and digital archiving efforts. Various information problems caused by language, technology and policy obstacles were revealed. Findings suggest strategies to assist Korea-related information users.