South Korean Court Clears Government and Adoption Agency in Adoptee's US Deportation Case

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A South Korean court recently cleared the government and an adoption agency of all liability in a lawsuit filed by a 49-year-old Korean adoptee, Adam Crapser. Crapser, who was adopted by American parents at the age of three, faced deportation from the United States in 2016 because his adoptive parents never secured his American citizenship. This decision by the court marks a significant legal outcome in the context of international adoptions and the responsibilities of adoption agencies and governments involved.

Crapser had accused the Holt Children's Services, the South Korean adoption agency responsible for his placement, and the South Korean government of "malfeasance" and negligence, claiming that their actions contributed to his traumatic adoption experience and subsequent deportation. Despite his accusations, the Seoul Central District Court dismissed his claims, stating that the government and the agency were not liable for the issues he faced.

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This case has drawn significant attention to the broader issue of international adoptions and the legal complications that can arise when adoptive children are not granted citizenship by their adoptive countries. Crapser's situation is not unique; he is one of several South Korean adoptees who have faced similar deportations due to lapses in the adoption process and citizenship acquisition.

The court's decision underscores the complexities and legal challenges involved in international adoptions, highlighting the need for greater accountability and legal safeguards to protect the rights and well-being of adoptees.