Adopting a Child from Korea FAQs

On a limited basis, we are considering applications for the Korean Program

We are considering new applications for the Korean program. If you would like more information, submit a Pre-App, and we will be in touch. New Beginnings will assist in relative adoptions in Korea.

Who are the Children in Need of Adoption?

We do not expect the children in need of adoption to change after the new process is implemented. Most of the children in need of adoption are boys, 16 months to two years old at placement. Korea does not allow gender preference. The information presented with the referral is detailed and complete, with growth charts and developmental progress. The referral packet also includes non-identifying background information on the birth parents. The children receive excellent medical attention with monthly well-checks.  Updated information and pictures are routinely available. We encourage adopting families to send letters and packages to the child during the process. Anticipate referrals of children with medical concerns, and it is common to see some degree of alcohol or tobacco exposure in the background. Families must be open to a child with correctable needs or special needs on a case-by-case basis.

Is Travel Required?

There could be some changes to the travel requirements. As of now, parents will take one trip lasting moe than a month.

What are the Eligibility Requirements?

• Marital Status — Three years of marriage is required.
• Age — Both spouses must be under the age of 45 at child placement; under 42 is recommended when starting the process.
• Age Waiver — Special permission will be given up to age 49, at placement, if one of the following conditions are met:
  • At least one parent is of Korean Heritage, or
  • One parent is a Korean adoptee, or
  • Parents already have adopted from Korea.
• Weight — Both spouses must have a body mass index (BMI) under 30%.
• Health — Both spouses must be in excellent health without major medical concerns. Medication or Counseling for a mental health condition would be a concern in Korea. Please contact us or submit a pre-application if you have specific questions about this.
• Family Composition — There can be no more than four children in the family before the adopted child’s arrival.
• Gender Preference — There is no gender preference, and more boys are placed each year than girls.
• Arrest — If either parent has an arrest, please contact us or submit a pre-application. Most minor arrests would not be disqualifying.

Do you Provide Services in all States?

We can provide adoption placement services in all states. New Beginnings will do the home study and adoption services for families that live in the states that we are licensed: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. For families in other states, we will help you find a licensed home study agency in your state. If another ESWS agency is in your state of residence, we suggest you consider using them for the home study and placement services.

Would it be Right for You?

Many of the children have medical or other concerns in the Background Study. At referral, you will receive a thorough medical report on the child and a social history of the birth parents. Photos and updates on your child come every month after that. There are also progress reports every three months until arrival. Many more boys are placed than girls, and gender preference is not permitted. The adoption process routinely goes smoothly. Korean adoption costs are slightly higher than average. Regardless, Korea is an excellent program and one you should seriously consider.