Abstract:
Labor migration is often seen as a means to offer economic stability to prospective
migrants, especially in developing countries. However, the desire for migration
becomes less favorable in the absence of the supportive framework fostered
by social networks among immigrants. Sri Lankan youth from rural areas who
frequently experience financial hardships are being encouraged to migrate
to South Korea. This article investigates how social networking influences the
subjective well-being of those Sri Lankan labor immigrants in South Korea. In-depth
interviews, case studies, and the retrieval of social media data were used to collect
data. According to the analysis, the capacity for social networking influences the
outcomes of migration. In addition, migration to South Korea has been promoted
not as an alternative to existing financial stability solutions, but as a mainstream
strategy for enhancing life satisfaction, particularly for young rural men in Sri Lanka.
In addition, it is discovered that the host country must provide an environment
conducive to the operation of migrant networks. Overall, the article demonstrates
that having access to migrant networks is a fundamental element in ensuring the
well-being of immigrants.
