A Working Holiday Maker’s Diary

This documentary explores the diverse experiences and emotions of Korean immigrants in Australia. It follows a young Korean working holiday maker connecting with different generations of Korean Australians, capturing their unique perspectives on life Down Under. The film showcases the challenges and joys of navigating cultural differences, building communities, and finding belonging in a new land. It also highlights the vibrant energy of young working holiday makers embracing Australian culture and the poignant reflections of older immigrants on their journeys and the complexities of cultural identity. From hilarious experience like shaving heads to save money on haircuts to the heartfelt struggles of raising children who speak a different language, leading to feelings of alienation and cultural disconnect, the film aims to create a rich tapestry of the Korean-Australian immigrant experience, highlighting both the triumphs and challenges of building a life in a new land.

Notably, last year’s Busan International Film Festival opening film, “Because I Hate Korea,” which sparked controversy with its provocative title, is based on a novel about a woman who leaves for Australia, unable to endure the fiercely competitive atmosphere of Korean society. Indeed, South Korea, grappling with the side effects of rapid economic growth after the Korean War, holds the highest suicide rate and the lowest birth rate among OECD countries. Australia serves as a kind of escape for young Koreans going through tough times. However, there is also a prevalent social prejudice among young Koreans, with claims like, “People who go on working holidays are promiscuous,” or “If you go on a working holiday in Australia, you’ll end up only working on a farm.” In this context, this documentary aims to overcome the negative prejudice surrounding working holidays in Australia and capture the real stories of Korean immigrants through the director’s personal narrative.

Extending the Narrative: A Book Project

Beyond the film, this project envisions a companion book that delves deeper into the lives and experiences of the Korean Australian seniors featured in “A Working Holiday Maker’s Diary.” Due to the constraints of film duration, many of their rich and compelling stories could not be fully explored in the documentary. This book aims to provide a platform for these narratives to be shared in greater detail, preserving their valuable oral histories for future generations. The book will weave together personal narratives, archival photographs, and historical context to paint a vivid picture of the Korean Australian immigrant experience to recognize their significant role in shaping the multicultural fabric of Australia, and to provide insights and encouragement for young Koreans considering or currently on a working holiday in Australia.

The director, a Korean-Australian born in Sydney, was raised in Korea after his parents found life in Australia challenging and ultimately returned, he now finds himself back in his birthplace on a working holiday visa. His current role as a mobile phone instructor at “Baekho University,” a Korean senior center in Sydney, has allowed him to forge deep connections with elderly Korean immigrants. This personal connection, coupled with his own experience of navigating dual cultural identities, provides a nuanced understanding of the Korean-Australian experience. This intimate perspective will inform the documentary’s exploration of the community, enabling a multifaceted and empathetic portrayal of Korean immigrant life in Australia.

For young Koreans, the film aims to inspire curiosity and a positive perception of Australia, encouraging them to consider working holiday experiences as a means of personal growth and cultural exchange. By showcasing the diverse opportunities and experiences available in Australia, it hopes to inspire young Koreans to broaden their horizons and embrace new challenges. In addition, the documentary encourages Korean society to reflect on the competitive nature of Korean culture and its impact on young people. By contrasting Korean and Australian cultural values, the film aims to spark a dialogue about alternative approaches to work-life balance and personal fulfillment. Also, the film exposes real challenges faced by Korean immigrants and working holiday makers in Australia. By showcasing stories of workplace challenges, mental health struggles, and cultural disconnects, it emphasizes the need for proper government support to foster a safer, more inclusive experience for immigrants.