Author(s)

Xiaoming Zhang

Corresponding Author

Xiaoming Zhang

Abstract

This study explores the construction of cultural identity by 176 Korean-Chinese (Chaoxianzu) adolescents aged 13-18 in modern China, by adapting Berry's acculturation paradigm with the complementary explanation of cultural capital by Bourdieu. By performing an advanced survey analysis that explores language proficiency, media usage, culture, and social media interconnection, we expose a complex structure of identity negotiation, whereby 81.8 percent of the participants use a bilateral strategy of Chinese-Korean identification. The study proves substantial regional differences exist between Yanbian Korean Autonomous Prefecture and other places, and the youth there retain more heritage language and cultural practices (78.5 percent and 85.7 percent versus 61.2 percent and 70.1 percent). According to the multiple regression analysis, language proficiency is the strongest influence on ethnic identity strength ( p-.001), with independently significant impacts on identity outcomes wielded by media consumption patterns and peer networks. The results are at odds with linear assimilation theories as they characterize more complex tactics in cultural navigation, taking the forms of selective cultural participation in youth as they build on emerging hybrids. These findings hold significant policy implications about education and cultural preservation policies when dealing with multiethnic societies.

Keywords

Korean-Chinese Youth, Cultural Identity, Acculturation, Language Maintenance, Yanbian, Cultural Capital