Decades in a country he can't call home: South Korean's US adoption nightmare

A United States law leaves tens of thousands of international adoptees without citizenship, a situation brought to light by a high-profile case. Eight years after his deportation from the US, an adoptee is seeking restitution in a Seoul courtroom, citing a flawed adoption process that disrupted his life. Despite a congressional bill that could allow his return, his case highlights an adoption system loophole affecting many families.

Adopted by a US family in 1979, he lived in the country for 37 years before deportation due to procedural failings in securing his citizenship. Although awaiting legislation for citizenship, he remains cautious about its progress. The bill, stalled in Congress, aims to remedy a loophole in a previous law that excluded certain aged adoptees.

After abandonment and challenging living conditions in his youth, his criminal record eventually led to deportation. This deportation has left him disconnected from South Korea, a place unfamiliar to him. Legal battles continue as he seeks to reunite with his children while confronting the complex adoption system. Recent court rulings awarded him partial damages but rejected further claims against involved agencies.

An upcoming South Korean court decision will address his appeal for additional damages. The case highlights past concerns about unethical practices in international adoptions and raises ongoing questions about the obligations of agencies and governments to facilitate citizenship for adoptees.