Abstract

This study addressed the lack of a valid and comprehensive instrument in South Korea for measuring the identity of allies - non-LGBTQ+ individuals who actively support and practice solidarity with LGBTQ+ people. To fill this gap, the present study aimed to adapt the Ally Identity Measure(AIM) into Korean and examine its reliability and validity. In Study 1, the original scale was translated and back-translated, followed by a preliminary investigation to examine the cultural suitability of the adapted version. In Study 2, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted, and internal consistency, convergent validity, and discriminant validity were evaluated. The results indicated that the Korean version of the AIM(K-AIM) consists of 20 items with three factors: Knowledge-Skill, Openness-Support, and Perceived Oppression. The three-factor model showed good fit indices(CFI = .959, TLI = .952, RMSEA = .054) and internal consistency(α = .78 - .92), as well as satisfactory levels of convergent and discriminant validity. The K-AIM goes beyond assessing merely affirmative attitudes toward LGBTQ+ individuals; it can serve as a robust tool for evaluating active support, advocacy, and commitment to social justice. It has potential applications in LGBTQ+ ally education, the development of ally training programs, and the evaluation of their effectiveness.