Seoul, South Korea A South Korean truth commission has issued a report concluding that the nation's government is responsible for fostering a foreign adoption program plagued by fraud and abuse. The commission's investigation, spanning several years, uncovered a pattern of systemic issues within the program, particularly during its peak in the 1970s and 1980s.
The report details instances of falsified documents used to facilitate adoptions, including altered birth certificates and fabricated parental consent forms. The commission also found evidence of coercion and pressure exerted on vulnerable mothers to relinquish their children for adoption, often without fully understanding the implications.
"The government failed to adequately oversee the adoption process and protect the rights of children and their families," stated a spokesperson for the truth commission. "Our investigation revealed a clear pattern of negligence and, in some cases, active participation in unethical practices."
The findings have sparked outrage among adoptees and advocacy groups, who are calling for a formal apology from the government and reparations for those affected. The commission's report also recommends a comprehensive review of current adoption policies to ensure transparency and accountability. The government has stated it will carefully consider the report's findings and take appropriate action.
South Korea Held Responsible for Adoption Fraud, Abuse
A South Korean truth commission found the government accountable for widespread fraud and abuse in its foreign adoption program. The commission's investigation revealed systemic issues that led to children being wrongly sent overseas. They found evidence of falsified documents and coercion tactics used to secure adoptions. This report sheds light on past injustices and calls for reforms to prevent future occurrences.
Source: Read the original article at NBC