Korean Language Education Research

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Article Info

Qualitative Case Study on Early Adolescents’ Open - Chat Experiences — Focusing on Relationship Formation with Strangers

Kim Sejin

인천신정 Elementary School, Teacher

Korean Language Education Research Vol. 60 No. 2 pp.5-36 (2025)

DOI: 10.20880/kler.2025.60.2.5

Abstract

— Focusing on Relationship Formation with Strangers Kim Sejin This study qualitatively investigates early adolescents’ (ages 11–13) use of open-chat platforms, focusing on how they form relationships with strangers, engage in emotional practices, and perceive and respond to risks. Data were collected through a focus group interview with six par- ticipants, non-participant observation of public chatrooms, and analysis of relevant social discourse. The findings show that early adolescents use open-chat as a space for interest-based communication, information seeking, and emotion- al exchange. They develop intimacy with strangers through strategic self-disclosure and empathetic responsiveness. These relationships are fluid, maintained or dissolved depending on emotional needs and situa- tional contexts. Participants also recognize a range of risks and employ coping strategies such as adjusting their self-disclosure, exiting cha- trooms, and using reporting tools. Furthermore, they respond to parental control and societal perceptions through acceptance, evasion, and nego- tiation, often engaging in emotional regulation. This study reframes early adolescents as autonomous agents of dig- ital practice instead of passive recipients of protection. It contributes to a deeper understanding of online intimacy and digital citizenship, as well as provides foundational insights into educational and policy responses.

Keywords

오픈채팅카카오톡초기 청소년낯선 사람디지털 관계익명성온라인 친밀감위험 인식디지털 시민성

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