Shin, Hwajin and Ryan, Louise (2026) The hidden structure of support: the role of vertical bonding ties for refugees. Journal of International Migration and Integration. ISSN 1488-3473 (Print), 1874-6365 (Online) (doi:10.1007/s12134-026-01395-w)

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Abstract

Research emphasises the benefits and limitations of in-group bonding ties for migrants, yet it typically overlooks the hierarchical variations within such ties. Drawing on social network data gathered by Shin (2022) from North Korean refugees in London and the foundational conceptualisation of horizontal and vertical ties developed by Ryan (2016), this study responds to calls for closer attention to differences of status, hierarchy, and resource distribution within migrant and refugee networks. Using quantitative and qualitative network analysis, we examine how North Korean refugees differentiate in-group members based on perceived status, identifying the individual and relational factors associated with higher-status recognition. The observed hierarchical structure reveals significant internal diversity within an ostensibly homogeneous ethnic group and shows that vertical and horizontal ties offer a powerful lens for analysing the structure and meaning of relationships within migrant networks. Rather than assuming resources flow freely within co-ethnic networks, this paper advances understanding of what motivates higher-status individuals to share, or refuse to share, valuable resources with co-ethnics and fellow refugees.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	social networks, refugees, weak ties, Korean, London
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) H Social Sciences > HM Sociology H Social Sciences > HT Communities. Classes. Races
Faculty / School / Research Centre / Research Group:	Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Last Modified:	27 Oct 2026 16:26
URI:	https://gala.gre.ac.uk/id/eprint/54843

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