An Analysis Study on the Experiences of Korean Elderly Using Third Places-Applying the Grounded Theory Method

This study aims to understand the meaning of the third place from the understanding of the Korean elderly's life through the analysis of the Korean elderly's experience of using the third place. The term "third place" is based on the concept Oldenburg suggested, but to focus on places that are closely related to daily life, this paper will define a third place as "an unofficial space that one would go voluntarily, regularly, or routinely." A total of 24 participants were selected to survey the experience of using a third place. The survey participants used in the research were 60+ years old, unemployed, and people who had third places they frequent to. The conclusion of the research is as follows. First, The paper has confirmed the elderly's desire for a third place that could be used regularly as well as the fact that a third place is an indispensable part of the elderly's lives. Second, The research has confirmed that places including parks, green spaces, and sports facilities are functioning as third places for the elderly and that third places are also formed at places such as stores or streets. It was also shown that many elderly people avoid using facilities specifically for seniors. Thus, existing third places must be recognized to support, supplement, and utilize their maintenance in addition to establishing welfare institutions and facilities.