The Moderating Effect of Korean Language Proficiency on the Relationship Between Self-Rated Health Status and Quality of Life Among International Students in Korea

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to examine whether Korean language proficiency moderates the relationship between international students' self-rated health status and quality of life (QoL) in South Korea, given the critical role of language skills in cultural adaptation and well-being. Methods: A secondary analysis was conducted using data from the 2023 Seoul Survey on Foreign Residents. The sample included 409 international students residing in Seoul. Hierarchical multiple regression and PROCESS macro (Model 1) were used to examine the moderating effect of Korean language proficiency on the relationship between self-rated health status and QoL. Results: Self-rated health status and Korean language proficiency were each positively associated with QoL, and the moderating effect of language proficiency was statistically significant. Among international students with low Korean proficiency, the association between self-rated health status and QoL was strong, whereas this relationship was negligible among those with high proficiency. These findings suggest that Korean language proficiency buffers the negative impact of poor health on QoL. Conclusion: Korean language proficiency is a protective factor for international students' QoL, mitigating the negative effects of poor self-rated health status. These findings underscore the need for integrated, culturally sensitive health policies and support programs that reduce language barriers and promote language acquisition to enhance the well-being of international students.