Korea Begins Implementing Special Adoption Act
Little Miracles International
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Friday, January 25, 2013
On
August 5, 2012, the Republic of Korea (ROK) Special Adoption Act, which
governs intercountry adoptions from South Korea, went into effect.
This law prioritizes domestic adoptions and endeavors to reduce the
number of South Korean children adopted abroad. Under the Special
Adoption Act, each intercountry adoption requires the approval of the
ROK Family Court. We anticipate other significant changes from previous
intercountry adoption procedures and requirements. The ROK government
has not yet given public notice of the details at this time.
The
ROK’s Ministry of Health and Welfare recently informed the U.S. Embassy
in Seoul that adoptions that were in process but not completed by
August 5, 2012 will be processed under the new law. Adoption agencies
in Seoul have confirmed that the files of all children under last
year’s quota who had not received Emigration Permits prior to the
effective date of the new law are now being sent to the Family Court for
approval once Emigration Permits are issued. Prospective adoptive
parents who believe their case may fall under the new law should contact
their adoption service provider for more information. The ROK is
accepting new adoption applications; however, prospective adoptive
parents should not expect rapid processing of these cases until the
ROK’s new procedures are in place.
We will continue to keep you updated through adoption.state.gov as additional information is received.
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