Vietnam is home to the largest Korean diaspora in Southeast Asia, according to data from the official website of the Republic of Korea government, mofa.go.kr. In 2021, the global Korean expatriate population reached approximately 7.3 million people, comprising both descendants of early emigrants from the Korean Peninsula and new emigrants from Korea.
The Korean diaspora is predominantly concentrated in five countries, with around 84.5% of Korean expatriates residing in China, the United States, Japan, Canada, and Uzbekistan. These countries have long been popular destinations for Korean emigrants, fostering significant Korean communities over the years.
In Southeast Asia, Vietnam stands out with the largest Korean community, numbering 156,330 people in 2021. This vibrant Korean presence in Vietnam reflects the strong economic and cultural ties between the two nations. The substantial Korean population in Vietnam is a testament to the country's attractiveness as a destination for both permanent migrants and newcomers from Korea.
Following Vietnam, the Philippines hosts the second-largest Korean diaspora in the region, with 33,032 individuals. Singapore comes in third, with a Korean population of 20,983. These figures illustrate the widespread distribution of Korean expatriates across Southeast Asia, contributing to the region's multicultural landscape.
The significant Korean presence in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries highlights the dynamic nature of global migration patterns and the interconnectedness of economies and cultures. Korean expatriates bring with them diverse cultural practices, business acumen, and a sense of community, enriching the social fabric of their host countries.
As these Korean communities continue to grow and integrate, they play a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations between Korea and Southeast Asian nations. The exchange of ideas, traditions, and economic opportunities fosters mutual understanding and cooperation, benefiting both the expatriates and their host countries.
The 2021 data on the Korean diaspora underscores the importance of recognizing and supporting these vibrant communities as they contribute to the global tapestry of cultures and societies.
