Exploring empathy and multicultural acceptance: How Korean adolescents' multicultural experiences shape their intentions for inclusive behavior

This study explores the sequential mediating effects of empathy and multicultural acceptance on the relationship between Korean adolescents' multicultural experiences and behavioral intentions. Data were collected from 693 elementary, middle, and high school students across South Korea and analyzed using SPSS 26.0 and the PROCESS macro v.3.5. Results showed positive correlations among multicultural experience, empathy, multicultural acceptance, and behavioral intentions. Both empathy and multicultural acceptance demonstrated significant indirect mediating effects, with a notable sequential mediation effect. Based on these results, we recommend educational programs such as multicultural awareness and global citizenship education, along with cooperative and experiential learning initiatives, to enhance empathy and multicultural acceptance. These strategies are essential for supporting Korea's transition to a multicultural society.