Abstract

This study explores the evolving role of Korean ethnic churches in Argentina, focusing on the motivations behind younger-generation Korean Argentines’ involvement and the broader social and cultural dynamics shaping their community. Many initially attended churches as children due to parental expectations or social reasons but later developed personal religious beliefs and became actively engaged in these institutions. While religious faith remains the primary reason for attendance, social factors—such as the comfort of interacting with fellow Koreans—also play a crucial role. Additionally, many churchgoing parents emphasize the significant role these churches play in their children’s education, prioritizing a supportive environment that fosters learning and instills positive values, which in turn facilitates their children’s integration into the Korean community. Thus, while religious devotion is primary, these churches cultivate a strong sense of belonging and reinforce ethnic solidarity. However, this tight-knit environment may also limit integration into broader Argentine society, restricting cross-cultural engagement beyond the community. Offering valuable insights into immigrant community dynamics in the Global South, distinct from the experiences of their counterparts in the Global North, this study fills a critical gap in research on Korean migration, shedding light on generational shifts, the evolving role of these institutions in immigrant communities, and their impact on social integration into the host society.