Ethnic-specific discrimination: focus group findings of Korean American emerging adults

Introduction: Disaggregating the Asian American racial category is crucial to understanding ethnic differences in discrimination. However, few studies have qualitatively explored perceptions of whether ethnic discrimination differs from racial discrimination. Methods: = 13) to explore perceptions of racial discrimination. After COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter protests, we conducted a follow-up focus group. We combined these findings with collective auto and insider ethnography. Results: Participants described being stereotyped and conflated with other Asians, with some perceiving positive stereotypes as benign. They identified flaws in existing racism measures. Historic events appeared to heighten awareness of one's racial and ethnic identity and awareness of systemic racism impacting all people of color. Discussion: Future studies may seek to revise discrimination measures to better capture ethnic-specific experiences and their implications for health.