You may have heard about the importance of introducing Korean culture to your child. I agree that it's important. Korea is where your child was born and it is very important that this be addressed from an early age. However, I would like to caution parents from becoming too excited... because that excitement could lead to disappointment if your child is not as excited as you are.

So far, I have seen three very distinct reactions from Korean adoptees:

1. The Sponge: This child will soak up everything you can provide and still want more. He'll see it as a part of his identity and he will want to try everything. A child who is this interested may want to travel back to Korea or locate birth-parents.

2. The Interested Observer: This was me! I enjoyed learning about Korea, but I was just as interested in learning about French culture or Native American culture. It was great to learn about a new place, but it wasn't my place. I had more desire to learn about Korea than I did about France because I sensed a physical connection, but I couldn't identify with Korean culture. I never viewed it as mine.

3. The All-American Kid: (You can replace "American" with the country of your choice.) This child doesn't care about Korea at all. He doesn't want to know about it and he dramatically yawns when you mention it. Personally, I would give it up as a lost cause and hope they change their mind in adulthood. My sister fell into this category. Korea had nothing to do with her and she was simply not interested.

My son is two years old now. He hasn't reached an age where he can tell me how he feels about Korean culture. So, while he still allows me to dictate his actions, I get his picture taken in his one-year hanbok and decorate his room with the Korean flag. I buy him books about Korea and I will drag him to our adoption agency picnics.

However, I am aware that there will come a time when he will tell me what he wants to do and I will respect what he tells me. I know that I can't force him to be interested and that, if I try, it will just frustrate both of us. I have my personal experience to look back on for guidance and the knowledge that everyone reacts differently. I hope this helps you.