Rebuilding life after breast cancer treatment among Korean breast cancer survivors: an integrative review.

PURPOSE: This integrative review examined posttreatment experiences among Korean breast cancer survivors and synthesized the findings within a life-reconstitution framework.

METHODS

Whittemore and Knafl's integrative review methodology was followed. Korean and international databases were searched from inception through January 19, 2026. Twelve publications met the inclusion criteria. Empirical studies were appraised using the 2018 Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, and findings were synthesized through constant comparison. Reporting was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 statement.

RESULTS

Most included publications used cross-sectional designs and reported survivorship outcomes as separate variables rather than as components of a connected process. Four interrelated domains were identified: survivorship context, physical and functional constraints, psychological adjustment and role reintegration, and modifiable domains for survivorship care. Persistent physical problems, including pain, sleep disturbance, and activity limitations, formed the functional context of survivorship. Psychological concerns, including body-image concerns and fear of cancer recurrence, together with return to work, were central to posttreatment adjustment. Exercise, diet, self-management, and surveillance support were identified as potentially modifiable areas.

CONCLUSION

Posttreatment survivorship among Korean breast cancer survivors can be understood as a process of rebuilding everyday life while managing persistent physical and psychosocial challenges. Integrating previous findings within a life-reconstitution framework provides a process-oriented perspective for survivorship research and care.