THIS MONTH IN THE KOREAN ADOPTEE COMMUNITY - July 2026
By Jon Oaks
Taking Care of Yourself This Summer
For many people, summer is a season of sunshine, vacations, backyard barbecues, and celebrations. Social media is often filled with smiling family photos, beach trips, weddings, and reunions, making it seem like everyone is enjoying every moment of the season. However, for Korean adoptees, this time of year can sometimes bring a mix of emotions. Along with the fun, summer often includes holidays and traditions that cause us to reflect on our own stories, our identities, and the relationships that have shaped our lives.
Although Father's Day has already passed, I still think of it as one of the traditions that marks the beginning of summer. As someone who lost my adoptive father in 2018, has no contact with my biological father, and has no future plans to become a father myself, this isn't necessarily a day of celebration for me. This year I had planned to attend a Detroit Tigers game on Father's Day, but ultimately decided not to go because seeing families celebrating with their dads wasn't how I wanted to spend the day. Of course, that's only my experience.
There is no right or wrong way to experience Father's Day or any other summer tradition. There is no single "adoptee experience," and there shouldn't be pressure to feel one particular way. Each adoptee's journey is unique, and it's okay if your feelings don't match what others expect. If a holiday or family gathering feels overwhelming, give yourself permission to celebrate differently. Sometimes taking care of yourself means participating. Other times, it means choosing not to.
The Fourth of July and Identity
For Korean adoptees living in the United States, many of us grew up celebrating Independence Day with fireworks, picnics, and time with family and friends. At the same time, our stories began somewhere else.
Independence Day has always been one of those holidays I never questioned as a child. In recent years, though, it has made me think about a different kind of independence: what it means to belong.
It has also reminded me that I don't have to choose between celebrating the country where I was raised and honoring the country where my story began. Those identities don't have to compete with one another. Instead, they can exist together, even if they sometimes leave me reflecting on where I feel most at home or how my life might have been different had I grown up in Korea.
Finding Community
One thing I've learned over the years is that taking care of myself doesn't always mean spending more time alone. Sometimes it means reaching out instead. Whether it's meeting another adoptee for coffee, attending a community event, joining an online discussion, or simply talking with someone who understands this unique experience, community has a way of reminding us that we don't have to carry everything by ourselves.
The following are just a few opportunities to connect with the Korean adoptee community over the coming months.
SUMMER 2026 COMMUNITY CALENDAR
July 7 – The Ties Program will host its monthly Ties Together virtual chat for adoptees and their loved ones. This month's theme, Joy and Silliness, will explore the role of humor and levity in the adoptee experience through guided conversation and community connection.
July 15 – Adoption Mosaic will host a Virtual Wellness Chat for adult adoptees via Zoom. The online gathering offers a supportive space for adoptees to connect, reflect, and engage in honest conversation while finding encouragement through shared experiences. Registration is available through Adoption Mosaic.
July 15–August 5 – The Korean Center, Inc. (KCI) will offer a four-week Minhwa (traditional Korean folk painting) workshop in San Francisco, California. Participants will learn traditional painting techniques while creating two Korean folk art hanging scrolls in a small-group setting designed for beginners.
July 19 – AK Connection will host a Summer Community Market in Minneapolis, Minnesota, celebrating the Korean adoptee and Korean American communities. The free, family-friendly event will feature local artists, small businesses, food vendors, and opportunities to connect with community members.
July 19 – The Association of Korean Adoptees–Los Angeles (AKA-LA) will host Noraebang Night in Buena Park, California. The evening includes dinner at Misoolkwan followed by karaoke at The Source OC, offering adoptees an opportunity to connect through food, music, and community. RSVP is required.
July 24–25 – Adoption Mosaic will host two adoptee gatherings in Portland, Oregon, alongside the BIPOC Adoptee Conference. A BIPOC Adoptee Happy Hour will take place on Friday evening, followed by an Adoptee Dessert Social on Saturday evening. The events are open to adoptees seeking connection and community, and registration is now open. More information.
August 15 – Korean Connection will host its annual Liberation Day Picnic from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Millennium Park (Shelter A) in Walker, Michigan. Celebrate Korea's National Liberation Day with food, fellowship, and an opportunity to reconnect with old friends and make new ones. Registration is required by August 12.
September 19 – Korea Fest: Chuseok at the Orchard will take place at Twin Star Orchards in New Paltz, New York. The festival will celebrate Korean heritage through food, culture, and community in honor of Chuseok, Korea's traditional harvest festival.
September 19–20 – Adopterade Koreaners Förening (AKF) will celebrate its 40th anniversary with a weekend gathering in Stockholm, Sweden. Korean adoptees are invited to enjoy food, shared experiences, and opportunities to connect while celebrating the organization's milestone.
October 1–4 – The 53rd Los Angeles Korean Festival will take place at Seoul International Park in Los Angeles, California. This annual celebration of Korean culture will feature food, entertainment, cultural performances, and community activities throughout the four-day festival.
October 25–28 – Me & Korea will host its Mosaic Family & Friends Tour to Jeju, South Korea. Open to Korean adoptees and their family members and friends, the four-day tour includes visits to Jeju's scenic landmarks, cultural experiences, meals, accommodations, and opportunities to connect with fellow adoptees. Registration is now open.
Looking Ahead
Summer doesn't have to look the same for everyone. Some days may bring celebration, while others bring reflection, uncertainty, or sadness. However you experience this season, know that your feelings are valid. Whatever this summer brings, I hope you know there is a place for you in our community.
As the season continues, I hope you'll find time to care for yourself, connect with others, and remember that you don't have to navigate your journey alone. Whether you're spending the summer with family, friends, fellow adoptees, or simply enjoying a quiet moment to yourself, I hope this season brings opportunities for peace, growth, and connection.
