The First International Gathering of Korean Adult Adoptees

The First International Gathering of Korean Adult Adoptees was held in 1999, Washington, DC.  This three day event invited Korean adoptees from all over the world. About 500 of us came together to connect, discover community and spend time sharing our experiences. 

For many, it was the first time being in a room where they entered as an adoptee and as a Korean person. For one portion of the event, we were divided by age and given an opportunity to have more intimate discussions with peers. 

This historic event created the foundation of more gatherings in Europe and in Korea. IAMAdoptee talked to pioneer participants and how this moment impacted their lives. Here are their impressions.