1
Department of English Linguistics & Language Technology, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Seoul, Republic of Korea
2
School of Digital Humanities and Computational Social Sciences, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
10.22059/jflr.2026.424459.1319
Abstract
Purpose: This study aims to explore the experiences of personal and professional growth and emotional well-being among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instructors working in higher education in South Korea. Method: The study employed a narrative inquiry approach informed by the theory of the transformative self. Data were collected through 16 semi-structured interviews with eight EFL instructors and analyzed thematically. Findings: The analysis revealed four major themes: change and redemption, growth as an EFL teacher, the gift and cost of care, and the limits of growth. The findings indicate that meaningful connections with students and the wider community, an ethical orientation, and a commitment to others’ growth can contribute to instructors’ personal and professional satisfaction and overall well-being. In contrast, institutional pressures, burnout, and limited opportunities for growth can undermine their well-being. Conclusion: EFL instructors’ growth and well-being depend not only on individual characteristics but also on the quality of their social relationships and the support provided by institutions. Strengthening supportive interactions, encouraging professional reflection, and providing opportunities for professional development may help improve instructors’ emotional well-being and job satisfaction.
Dahee Jung, C. & Reyes, C. (2026). The Lives of English Language Educators: Narratives of Growth and Transformation in South Korea. Journal of Foreign Language Research, 16(4), 421–440. https://doi.org/10.22059/jflr.2026.424459.1319
MLA
Dahee Jung, C., & Reyes, C. "The Lives of English Language Educators: Narratives of Growth and Transformation in South Korea", Journal of Foreign Language Research, 16, 4, 2026, 421–440. doi: 10.22059/jflr.2026.424459.1319
HARVARD
Dahee Jung, C., & Reyes, C. (2026). 'The Lives of English Language Educators: Narratives of Growth and Transformation in South Korea', Journal of Foreign Language Research, 16(4), pp. 421–440. doi: 10.22059/jflr.2026.424459.1319
CHICAGO
Dahee Jung, C. & Reyes, C., "The Lives of English Language Educators: Narratives of Growth and Transformation in South Korea." Journal of Foreign Language Research, 16 4 (2026): 421–440, doi: 10.22059/jflr.2026.424459.1319
VANCOUVER
Dahee Jung C., Reyes C. The Lives of English Language Educators: Narratives of Growth and Transformation in South Korea. JFLR. 2026;16(4):421–440 (In Persian). doi: 10.22059/jflr.2026.424459.1319
