It is fairly shocking that Korea is slated to phase out their adoption program in the upcoming year. Of course, that year begins in two days. This has been painful for many people. Yet, it is true. Korea is working to close its adoption program in the year of 2012. In doing so, they are bringing their adoption needs back to their own country and have plans to place all of their orphaned children in house.
This is actually a good step for Korea as a country. Their adoption program began as a result of the war that devastated their country- economically the country was hit very hard. They were also left with a lot of children fathered by the soldiers who were living there at the time. These children were not considered ‘a good thing’ and many were abandoned. A large wave of compassion swept over the United States and people stepped up to adopt these children. What an amazing history. Korea has had time to rebuild its country and economics. The threat of children fathered by soldiers stationed there has lessened. They now have a working foster care system for their orphaned children. They also have particularly streamlined orphanage houses that often include a teacher and doctor on site. The children are well cared for.
I have heard that there are some people still completing adoptions from Korea. Let us know how it is going. It is difficult to come across information as to when this country will be closed but I do know that it takes almost 3 years to adopt a healthy child from this area and they will not begin those adoptions at this time. If you have heard differently…? Let me know. This blog is to bring information that is useful and accurate. I would love to read pertinent information.
I remember the many books written containing stories of hope for the orphans from this country. I used to sit as a young adult and read them over and over. I couldn’t believe that heart and compassion that led to many of the adoptions. It is truly amazing. I will continue to watch Korean adoption. They will be showing changes in the near future. At this point, they are considered open but are not accepting new applications. They are not party to the Hague Convention and do not hold to its statutes. Feel free to post your adoption memories from this country.
~Angie
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