Seoul:First lady Kim Hea Kyung expressed her hopes on Monday that Koreans adopted overseas will develop a closer connection with their homeland and cherish positive memories of it.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the first lady made these remarks during her speech at the opening ceremony of a gathering organized by the International Korean Adoptee Associations (IKAA) in Seoul. This event brought together Korean adoptees from around the world to foster community and connection.
During her speech, Kim noted that South Korea might be perceived differently by each attendee. She mentioned that for some, it might feel like a foreign country, while for others, it represents a long-awaited homeland. She encouraged the adoptees to embrace their visit as an opportunity to explore their roots and identity. Kim expressed her wish that the adoptees would immerse themselves in the country's autumn, cuisine, and other attractions, hoping these experiences would leave lasting memories.
Tommy Gentzel, President of the IKAA, highlighted the immense potential for strengthening the relationship between Korean adoptees and South Korea. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the challenges faced by adoptees and taking steps towards reconciliation. Gentzel urged South Korea and related institutions to provide necessary resources and assistance, such as facilitating DNA tests, to aid adoptees in locating their biological families.