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 National Center for the Rights of the Child (NCRC), 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.
Planning a trip to Korea? Learn more about our Active Search Service!
Birth Family Search Procedure
Adoptees should contact the National Center for the Rights of the Child (NCRC) to request a search be started formally.
There are various outcomes from the initial search done by the NCRC.
- If the birth parent(s) are found:
- Consent to disclose information will be given.
- If consent is given, the adoptee may receive detailed information about their birth parents and potentially facilitate a reunion.
- If consent is not granted, it is suggested to wait 1 year before reaching out again.
- Consent to disclose information will be given.
- If the birth parent(s) cannot be found:
- See Step 3 for further search efforts
Requests will be handled by the National Center for the Rights of the Child (NCRC).
If birth parents are unable to be found, further steps can be taken in your search.
- DNA Registration to Korea's National Database
- Active Search with G.O.A.'L.
- Hope Registry registration with Adoptee Hub
- NCRC Family Search Bulletin Board
- Media
G.O.A.'L. Members
By becoming a member of G.O.A.’L., you will have access to:
1:1 Consultation
Search Guide
Just starting your search journey and unsure where to begin? We offer a step-by-step guide to support your unique case.
Translation & Interpretation
Active Search Support
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 the National Center for the Rights of the Child (NCRC)
- Request copies of your adoption documents
- Request an in-person file review (if visiting Korea), either in the Seoul office or the temporary storage facility in Goyang.
- Request a family search from the National Center for the Rights of the Child
Continued Search
- Contact National Center for the Rights of the Child
- Request a family search
- Request media options
- Register with Adoptee Hub "Hope Registry"
Pre and Post-Reunion
- Conduct 1-to-1 DNA matching test
- Reunion (after DNA test results)
- Build relationship
