DNA and My Adoption Case

When is DNA Relevant to My Case?

At G.O.A.'L. we define two categories that relate to DNA for adoptee cases:

DNA Registration

When an adoptee is searching for their biological family

DNA Testing

When an adoptee has found a potential birth family and would like to verify the biological relationship
    • G.O.A.'L. has a partnership with DowGene DNA Testing Company in Korea to perform DNA testing between potential birth families and adoptees.
    • This is not required, but highly suggested.
    • Additional fees may be required.

DNA Registration is designed to assist Korean adoptees of unknown descent in reconnecting with their biological families.

Since January 2020, Korean adoptees living abroad are eligible to submit their DNA samples through Korean embassies and consulates in 14 countries, without needing to travel to Korea.

Who is eligible for DNA Registration?

DNA Registration is made possible for adoptees under Article 11 of the Law on Protection and Assistance to Missing Children. You are eligible if you are a Korean adoptee of unknown descent, meaning:

Classification 1:
No identifying information of birth parents

In your adoption paperwork from your agency or the NCRC, there is no identifying information of either birth parent.

If your files include the last name, age, etc. of either your mother or father, this would make you ineligible for this classification. You may still be eligible depending on the outcome of your search efforts (See classification 2)

Classification 2:
Identifying information exists, but birth parent cannot be found

If there is identifying information in your adoption paperwork for your birth parents and your adoption agency or NCRC has started a search for them BUT is unable to find anyone with that information.

If the agency or NCRC was able to find and contact one of the birth parents, but not the other, you are NOT eligible to register your DNA.

How to Register Your DNA with Korea

For adoptees who are eligible to register their DNA, you can do so overseas or in Korea. Below are the necessary documents needed for all adoptees, no matter where you are registering.
Step 1

Until July 19, 2025, adoptees should contact their Korean adoption agencies to request for disclosure of adoption information.

Agency Information
After July 19, 2025, requests will be handled by the National Center for the Rights of the Child (NCRC).
NCRC Information
Step 2
Step 3
If living in or planning to visit Korea, take your ID and adoption certificate to the police station to register your DNA. G.O.A.'L. takes appointment requests to assist our members.
Become a Member

If you plan to register your DNA outside of Korea, see the list of relevant Korean Embassies and Consulates that perform DNA testing.

Embassy Information

Resources