BIRTH FAMILY SEARCH

An Adoptee's Journey

The search for one’s origin is often an integral part of an adoptee’s sense of self. Starting a search can feel daunting without an understanding of the agencies, regulations, and processes involved.

G.O.A.’L.’s birth family search service has been assisting adoptees for 20+ years in navigating the constantly changing landscape that is birth family search.

G.O.A.'L. Members

By becoming a member of G.O.A.’L., you will have access to exclusive family search services!

Searching on Your Own

If you would like to conduct a search without the assistance of G.O.A.’L., here is a general outline of the steps you might want to take.

Throughout any part of the process, if you would like the assistance of G.O.A.’L. please consider becoming a member.

Initial Search

  • Contact your adoption agency
  • Request copies of your adoption documents
  • Request an in-person file review (if visiting Korea)
  • Request a family search from your adoption agency

Continued Search

Pre and Post-Reunion

  • Conduct 1-to-1 DNA matching test
  • Reunion (after DNA test results)
  • Build relationship

Special Family Search Programs

First Trip Home

In 2008, G.O.A.’L. created the First Trip Home program for adoptees to return to Korea for the first time and search for their origins. This program is unique as it not only focuses on visiting and connecting with Korea, but also includes individualized family search efforts for each participant.

Applications for 2024 will be announced in April/May 2024

Sotdae

In 2020, as a response to travel and gathering restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, G.O.A.’L. introduced, Sotdae, a 10-day origin search program that focused on one adoptee’s journey to connect with Korea and conduct a thorough family search.

This was a privately funded program. If you or an organization you know is interested in sponsoring this program, please contact sg@goal.or.kr