Respectful Disconnection: Understanding Long Distance Family Relationships in a South Korean Context

We report upon the conduct and findings of an investigation into technology design for long-distance relationships (LDRs), where South Korean culture raises specific challenges. Through two qualitative studies we explore inter-generational LDRs from the perspective of South Korean students based in the United Kingdom. We identify and document the particular nuances within, and challenges that arise from, these relationships, before turning to the pragmatics of technology design for LDRs. Through both an extended diary study and interviews with students, we illustrate the impact of Korean familial obligations on intergenerational LDRs, and the mistrust and anxiety on both sides (parents and students) arising from limitations in communication channels. From our findings, we develop the notion of 'respectful disconnection' which we propose as a framework for designing interactions that appropriately support LDRs within this specific South Korean context.