Ongoing Endings

Abstract

This paper explores intersecting narratives of loss and possibility through the experiences of undocumented Peruvian migrant workers who find previously unimaginable possibilities for migration and love despite—and often because of—their inability to remain in South Korea. In this global space, Peruvians are surrounded by people in transit and are inspired to create long-term plans that would be difficult, if not impossible, were they documented and permanent—such as entering into hurried romantic relationships with other migrants. Forging temporarily permanent legal ties in Korea (such as marrying other undocumented foreigners) can have tragic results, such as when marriages dissolve and one partner disappears with the children into the global realm where the other has no legal or financial means to follow. Through re-telling the narrative, both the migrant and ethnographer locate points of possibility and opportunity, and give voice to otherwise undocumented global stories.