The Catalytic Role of AI in Intercultural Communication: Verification of the Full Mediation Effect of Cultural Transformation Among Female Asian Students

This study explores the catalytic role of artificial intelligence (AI) in intercultural communication among international female students in South Korea.While AI is often celebrated for its utility, this research critically examines how it facilitates 'Cultural Transformation' and whether this process leads to actual communication success.Through a survey of 54 students from 9 countries, including a focus group of 17 Islamic women, the study employs mediation analysis (Sobel test) to uncover differing pathways.Results reveal that while general female students show partial mediation, Islamic female students exhibit a full mediation effect, suggesting that cultural transformation is a mandatory prerequisite for their communicative success in the Korean 'Reactive' context.The study also addresses the ethical implications of AI bias and the necessity of a balanced perspective on AI's role.This exploratory research provides a foundation for future qualitative and socio-cultural inquiries into AI-mediated gendered identities.