Between a Rock and a Hard Place: The Impact of Anti-Americanism on Locally Employed Staff at the American Embassy in Korea

Abstract

The Korean locally employed staff (LES) at the American Embassy in Seoul face idiosyncratic job-related challenges. The Korean LES often find them-selves caught in the crossfire between the American government and domestic anti-American sentiments. The LES's dual identity as Korean nationals working for a foreign government puts them in an awkward position in times of bilateral friction. They are subjected to negative framing of their occupational socialization and threats of physical attack. Their low turnover rates, however, suggest the existence of effective coping mechanisms. The LES internalize the pride of working for the superpower government and assuming a mediator's role between their employer and the Korean public. Monetary motivations also play a crucial role in the tight local labor market.