Concurrent Session:
Lessons from the Lived Experiences of People with Intellectual Disabilities Transitioning from institutional to community living in South Korea

This presentation shares findings from a study examining the experiences of people with intellectual disabilities in Korea as they transition from institutional settings to community living. While many express a desire to leave institutional care, the transition is challenging due to factors such as social isolation, limited community participation, inadequate staff training, insufficient funding, and weak government policies. These challenges reflect those faced in Western deinstitutionalization efforts, prompting questions about whether Korea will repeat these patterns or learn from global experiences. Research indicates that deinstitutionalization is often driven by policy rather than the specific needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities. This study identifies facilitators and barriers in the Korean context and employs the Social Role Valorisation (SRV) framework to propose culturally relevant strategies for smoother transitions. Key research questions address personal experiences, community inclusion, and the role of support networks. By gathering perspectives from various stakeholders, the study aims to ensure that individuals with intellectual disabilities are not excluded from the deinstitutionalization process and provides guidance for fostering their inclusion in society. Although SRV is relatively new in Korea, its application offers valuable insights for supporters involved in transitions, yielding important lessons for both Korean and Western contexts.