Abstract
The present study examines the communication experiences of American expatriates in
South Korea. Y. Y. Kim’s (1988, 2001, 2005) Cross-cultural Adaptation Theory provides the
basis for offering an explanation of the linkage between the communication competence and
psychological health of American expatriates vis-à-vis the South Korean sociocultural milieu.
The analysis uses portions of verbal transcripts obtained through 20 in-depth personal interviews
between June and September 2002. The results show that cultural differences reflected in
verbal/nonverbal behaviors and work styles are important sources of psychological challenge for
the American expatriates. The majority of American respondents reported that positive and
genuine relationships/friendships with host nationals (i.e., Koreans) contribute to their positive
and rewarding life experience overseas. As Kim’s theory predicts, the overall outcome of the
study affirms that communication is the central force in the adaptation of expatriates by
promoting psychological health in an unfamiliar host cultural environment.