THIS MONTH IN THE KOREAN ADOPTEE COMMUNITY - OCT 2024

Photo Credit: Korean Adoptees Together Facebook Page

By Jon Oaks

For Korean adoptees, cultural holidays such as Hangul Day and National Foundation Day can take on a deeper meaning, as they reconnect with their heritage and identity. These two important Korean holidays provide adoptees with opportunities to engage with significant aspects of Korean history and culture, allowing them to explore their roots in meaningful ways.

Hangul Day, celebrated on October 9, commemorates the creation of the Korean alphabet, Hangul, by King Sejong the Great in 1443. For many Korean adoptees, Hangul Day is more than just a celebration of language; it represents a chance to reclaim a piece of their cultural identity and connect more deeply with their birth culture, as language is key to understanding traditions, stories, and personal histories. This recent post by Korean Adoptees Together is a great reminder that through language classes, cultural events, or personal study, the effort to learn Hangul is a tangible way for many adoptees to engage with Korean culture. In fact, many Korean adoptees, including myself, have taken Korean language classes at KCCNYC as part of our journeys.

Also in October, National Foundation Day, celebrated on October 3, marks the legendary founding of Korea in 2333 BCE by Dangun, the mythical founder of the Korean people. This day is significant for all Koreans, as it represents the origins of the nation and the unity of the Korean people. For adoptees, National Foundation Day can carry an added layer of importance, symbolizing both the collective origins of the Korean people and a personal reflection on their own beginnings. This year, representatives from the KAtCH: Korean Adoptees of Chicago Board attended the National Foundation Day reception hosted by the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Chicago, signaling just one of the many ways adoptees engage with Korea.
Ultimately, both Hangul Day and National Foundation Day provide Korean adoptees with a bridge to their heritage, offering moments to celebrate and reflect on the culture they come from. These holidays not only highlight Korea’s rich traditions but also serve as opportunities for adoptees to build a deeper connection to their identity, honor their roots, and embrace their place in the Korean diaspora.