Navigating rural borders: How do multicultural families adapt to life in Korea?

International marriage migration has rapidly transformed South Korea’s rural areas. Using Q methodology, this study examines how multicultural farm families perceive and adapt to rural life amid cultural, social, and economic challenges. Data from 29 participants reveals three adaptation types: (1) Satisfied Settlers, who build belonging through family and community relationships, (2) Cultural Challengers, who face language and economic barriers, and (3) Support Seekers, who rely on external support, particularly for their children’s education. The findings highlight diverse rural multicultural experiences and support a subjectivity-centered approach, with policy implications for more context-sensitive, family-oriented integration across the Asia–Pacific region.