A bibliometric analysis of Hakka studies: Insights from WoS and CSSCI data using citespace

This study presents a bibliometric analysis of Hakka studies from 2004 to 2023, utilizing data from the Web of Science (WoS) and the Chinese Social Sciences Citation Index (CSSCI) through the CiteSpace tool. By systematically examining trends in publication growth, major research institutions, keywords, and authors within the field, the study offers a comprehensive overview of the academic landscape surrounding Hakka studies. In particular, it highlights both the breadth and the evolving nature of the field over the past two decades. The analysis of publication growth shows distinct patterns in how Hakka studies have developed in different academic environments. Data from WoS indicates a marked increase in global engagement with Hakka-related research, particularly in the fields of linguistics, anthropology, and diaspora studies, which reflects a broader international interest in the Hakka people's language, cultural practices, and migration patterns. This growing international attention suggests that Hakka studies have become a part of more global discourse, linking topics such as ethnic identity, language preservation, and migration to broader scholarly conversations in the humanities and social sciences. In contrast, the CSSCI data, representing research primarily conducted within China, reveals a more concentrated focus on social culture, history, and regional studies, which reflects the deep-rooted interest in understanding the historical, social, and cultural aspects of the Hakka community within the context of Chinese society. These researches often focus on themes such as Hakka migration, the preservation of Hakka traditions, and the role of the Hakka in Chinese history, underscoring the significance of the Hakka as both a cultural and historical entity within China. Therefore, this article not only provides an important reference for the academic community to understand and promote Hakka research, but also provides important insights for promoting the further development of Hakka research.