THIS MONTH IN THE KOREAN ADOPTEE COMMUNITY - May 2025
By Jon Oaks
Remembering Gwangju, Honoring History, and Protecting the Future: A Reflection for Korean Adoptees
Each May, Korea remembers the Gwangju Uprising—a pivotal moment in Korean history when ordinary citizens stood up against military dictatorship to demand democracy, human rights, and dignity. Although it occurred more than 40 years ago, the significance of Gwangju continues to resonate deeply today, including for Korean American adoptees.
This month, we also look toward the future, with major updates about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) investigation into international adoption and the critical July 1, 2025, deadline for accessing adoption records. Together, these events offer a powerful reminder: our stories matter, and the pursuit of truth is ongoing.Words of Support for Korean Adoptees with Disabilities
To Korean adoptees living with disabilities: You are seen, valued, and your experiences matter. Navigating adoption and identity is already complex—and adding the challenges of physical, cognitive, sensory, or mental health disabilities can make the journey feel even more isolating. Know that your story is important, and your voice deserves space. Whether you're just beginning to explore your identity or have been advocating for years, your presence strengthens our community.
This is a reminder that disability is not a limitation on worth—it is a part of human diversity. Your needs, your advocacy, your ways of being—all are valid. We celebrate your achievements, your courage, and your presence in this world.
Why Gwangju Matters to Korean Adoptees
Growing up outside of Korea, many adoptees may not have learned about events like the Gwangju Uprising. However, understanding this history can offer powerful context for their own stories and identity. Learning about the sacrifices made during Gwangju helps adoptees see a fuller, more complex picture of the country of their birth—a Korea built on resilience, courage, and a yearning for justice.
The Gwangju Uprising was about ordinary people demanding dignity and being heard. Many adoptees, who often navigate complex feelings about identity, belonging, and justice, may find deep solidarity with Gwangju’s spirit of resistance.
The aftermath of Gwangju influenced major changes—and persistent challenges—in Korean society. Some of the same social conditions that fueled widespread international adoption, such as political instability, poverty, and systemic marginalization, were tied to the turmoil of this era. Understanding Gwangju offers adoptees a richer historical context for their own stories.
The struggle for democracy and human rights connects people across generations and borders. Korean American adoptees engaged in community building, activism, or personal healing today are part of a powerful tradition that echoes the hopes and sacrifices of Gwangju.
Just as adoptees show extraordinary strength in navigating complex identities, the citizens of Gwangju demonstrated profound resilience. Their courage continues to inspire anyone reclaiming, honoring, or redefining their place in history.
Important Updates for Adoptees: TRC Findings and Records Access
The commission's chairperson Park Sun-young (left) comforted adoptee Yooree Kim (right) during an emotionally charged press conference
In addition to remembering the past, this year also calls us to focus on critical developments affecting Korean adoptees today.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Korea (TRC) is expected to release its final findings related to Korean adoption practices later this year in 2025. These findings may reveal systemic irregularities, fraud, and ethical violations across decades of Korean international adoptions.
At the same time, a major transition is underway regarding adoption records:
As of July 1, 2025, adoption records currently held by agencies like Holt, Eastern, and KSS will be transferred to the National Center for the Rights of the Child (NCRC) in Korea.
After that date, all adoptee record requests will need to be made through NCRC rather than through the original agencies.
This shift could eventually lead to better transparency. However, during the transfer, there is a risk of losing or altering parts of original files.
Most agencies have already stopped accepting new record requests. If you have not yet requested your adoption file, it may already be too late to go through your agency directly.
Starting July 1, 2025, all new requests must be made through NCRC.
If you have not yet started the process, it is still worth preparing now by:
Gathering necessary documents (such as adoption decrees and passport information)
Identifying your agency of origin
Learning about the NCRC process and expectations
A valuable resource for adoptees is paperslip.org. While Paperslip primarily supports Korean Social Service (KSS) adoptees, their website offers detailed, practical information that is relevant for all Korean adoptees seeking their records. Paperslip provides updated templates, FAQs, and guidance to help adoptees better understand the changing landscape of records access.
Even though the process can feel overwhelming, staying informed and prepared will help adoptees advocate for themselves and maximize their chances of accessing important documents.
Honoring the Past, Protecting the Future
This month reminds us that honoring the past—whether through remembering Gwangju or uncovering hidden adoption histories—is inseparable from protecting the future.
To Korean adoptees:
Your history matters.
Your truth matters.
Your future matters.
Together, by seeking knowledge, speaking truth, and building community, we honor not only our personal journeys but also the resilience that defines the Korean people—and ourselves.
Reflecting on Gwangju, preparing for the TRC findings, and advocating for transparency are not separate stories—they are part of the same movement toward truth, healing, and justice.
