South Korea's Adoption Scandal: Truth Commission Unveils Shocking Findings

South Korea's truth commission has reported that the government facilitated a fraudulent foreign adoption program, driven by welfare cost reduction goals. A nearly three-year investigation examined complaints from 367 adoptees globally, revealing manipulation by private agencies. The commission aims to resolve all complaints before its mandate ends.

South Korea's truth commission has condemned the government's role in perpetuating a fraudulent foreign adoption system. The program, tainted by manipulation and abuse, aimed to cut welfare costs and was managed by private agencies that distorted children's backgrounds.

The report, published Wednesday, marks a comprehensive investigation into foreign adoptions from South Korea, peaking during the 1970s and '80s under military regimes. It responded to claims from 367 adoptees across multiple continents.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission concluded 56 investigations, aligning with previous exposés by The Associated Press. The AP revealed how Korean children were often unfairly procured for adoption to Western nations.

(With inputs from agencies.)