Deann Borshay Liem's Adoption Story and Korean Adoption Scandal

SOURCE www.npr.org
Deann Borshay Liem's adoption paperwork contained two childhood photographs labeled with the name Cha Jung Hee, revealing widespread fraud and human rights violations in Korean adoption agencies. More than 140,000 South Korean children were adopted abroad after the Korean war. Liem discovered her birth mother was alive, leading to her sharing her adoption story and thoughts on justice for adoptees.

Key Points

  • Deann Borshay Liem's adoption paperwork contained two childhood photographs labeled with the name Cha Jung Hee, indicating fraud in Korean adoption records
  • The Truth and Reconciliation Commission found Korean adoption agencies responsible for fraud, malpractice, and human rights violations
  • Liem discovered her birth mother was alive despite being told she was an orphan, highlighting the importance of adoptees knowing their true identities

Pros

  • Sheds light on the widespread fraud and human rights violations in Korean adoption agencies
  • Raises awareness about the challenges faced by adoptees in discovering their true identities

Cons

  • Reveals the dark side of international adoption practices