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Unwed single mothers in South Korea are a highly vulnerable population in terms of socioeconomic status, lack of social support, and the high level of discrimination that they have to live through due to existing stigma attached to this population. As a result, they are more likely to be living in poverty, and to be socially isolated and less likely to utilize health- and mental health care. The short essay presents the unwed single mothers’ increased vulnerabilities during COVID-19 pandemic in terms of childcare, financial crisis, and mental health.

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Historically, South Korean society has been deeply influenced by Confucianism, which has an emphasis on the traditional family structure. If a given family does not belong in the “traditional” norm, which is composed of husband, wife, and children, they are often discriminated against and ostracized. Despite the increasing number of nonmarital cohabiters in South Korea, research is still insufficient to understand the phenomenon. This study explores the prevalence of nonmarital cohabitation in South Korea, which is still met with discrimination. Online surveys and in-depth interviews were conducted with cohabiters to gain an understanding of the phenomenon and to explore their marriage and family values. The findings of this study indicate that cohabiters who chose cohabitation as an alternative to marriage had more progressive values. Findings from the study provide implications for practice and policy.

Multiculturalism in South Korea in recent years necessitates inclusion of cultural competency in South Korean social work education and practice. We examine the demographics of South Korea's 'diverse' population, followed by a theoretical framework of cultural competency and whether and to Downloaded from Hong et al. 181what degree cultural competency training can be effectively incorporated in South Korean social work education. Educational implications are also discussed.