How Race, Nationality, and Marital Status Create Privilege and Disadvantage in Korean ELT
Meerbek Kudaibergenov (Seoul National University of Science and Technology)
Abstract
This talk is situated within the ELT context of Korea, an environment notorious for perpetuating inequities, racialization, and discrimination in its discourses and practices. I discuss the experiences of one German national who taught English in Korea despite legal restrictions against him as a non-native English speaker and attempt to describe the niche occupied by teachers like him (and myself). I use intersectionality theory to examine how factors like nationality, race, and marital status intersect to create privilege and disadvantage, and discuss implications for social justice within ELT. Through this talk, I advocate for a more inclusive and equitable ELT environment in and beyond Korea.
Research Paper (In person; 25 minutes)
Social Justice Issues
General Interest
About the Presenter
Meerbek Kudaibergenov, PhD, is an assistant professor at Seoul National University of Science & Technology. With a keen focus on Eastern and Central Asian contexts, his research explores various dimensions of ELT, student and teacher identity, higher education, and country image. His work has been published in peer-reviewed journals including the Asia-Pacific Education Researcher, International Journal of Educational Development, Journal of Language, and Identity & Education. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7717-9473
