International Journal of Internet, Broadcasting and Communication

The Institute of Internet, Broadcasting and Communication (한국인터넷방송통신학회)
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Analyzing the Influence of COVID-19 on Overseas Korean Voting Intentions: Insights from Twitter Discourse

  • Sou Hyun JANG (Department of Sociology, Korea University) ;
  • Yong Jeong YI (Department of Applied Artificial Intelligence, School of Convergence, Sungkyunkwan University) ;
  • Wonbin CHO (Department of Political Science, Sungkyunkwan University )
  • Received : 2024.09.04
  • Accepted : 2024.09.14
  • Published : 2024.11.30
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Abstract

We investigate the discourse on Twitter among overseas Koreans regarding voting intentions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Employing Snscrape 0.3.4 for data collection, we gathered tweets using a set of predefined keywords related to voting, COVID-19, and overseas Korean experiences. Our content analysis, grounded in both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, followed a rigorous coding scheme developed iteratively to capture the essence of the discourse, focusing on attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived barriers to voting during the pandemic. We found a significant shift in discourse, from initial information sharing and voting encouragement to a focus on the obstacles posed by COVID-19, including the closure of diplomatic missions and the impact of social distancing measures. The findings reveal a strong collective self-efficacy among overseas Koreans, who actively sought and shared voting-related information, encouraged participation, and proposed alternative voting methods. Theoretical implications extend to the realms of self-efficacy and the theory of planned behavior, illustrating how digital platforms can mediate political mobilization and participation in unprecedented circumstances. This study contributes to the understanding of global citizenship and political engagement in the 21st century, emphasizing the importance of structural support and digital platforms in facilitating the exercise of citizenship rights during global crises.

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