A Qualitative Study on the Experience of Military Life and Ministry of Korean Christian Female Military Pastors

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to understand who female military pastors are in the Korean military and examine their military lives and ministry experiences through in-depth interviews and qualitative analysis. Six of the eight female military pastors currently working participated in this study. Seven major themes were identified: motivation to apply, role confusion and ambiguity, token women in the Korean military, perceived barriers or bias, equality experience, lack of network or mentor, and work and family balance. This study was helpful for obtaining a deeper understanding of female military pastors who exist as a minority in the Korean military. This study also provides basic information for the seminary education of future female military pastors and policies for female leaders working in the Korean military.

Keywords

• Korean military
• female military pastors
• military experience
• qualitative analysis