Cross-Cultural Validation of the Career Calling Scale for Korean Emerging Adults

This study set to provide an age- and culturally-appropriate measure of career calling for Korean young adults. We conducted a literature review and identified a suitable, 15-item Career Calling Scale for Emerging Adults. We translated all items into Korean, back-translated into English, and verified for accuracy. An exploratory factor analysis revealed three factors reflecting those of the original scale (other-oriented meaning, active engagement, and personal meaning; Stage 1; N = 152), and a confirmatory factor analysis supported that these loaded on a higher order factor of career calling (Stage 2; N = 260). The scale showed good internal consistency, and scale validity was supported by finding positive correlations with well-being and a second measure of career calling and a negative correlation with career indecision. The findings support our argument that career calling, viewed as a salient and meaningful career goal, is a relevant concept for Korean young adults.