Support Matthew's Journey into Exploring His Roots

Friends, family, and kind hearted individuals,

This summer, from August 5-17, for the first time in my life, I'll be visiting my country of origin, South Korea. While my interest in the culture and history is a draw for me on this trip, it is also part of a larger narrative.

Photo from my adoption file with my birth name, Kang Yung Suk

I was born in 1987 in Seoul, South Korea and was relinquished for adoption when I was less than a year old. I was adopted within a year and grew up in New Jersey to my loving family. I was always curious about my background and the culture of my birth country, but besides obtaining my files from the organization through which I was adopted, I never pursued any of this seriously until now.

Me and my mom

The process of diving into adoption records and tracking information down can be incredibly daunting and emotionally taxing when left to do it on your own, but with the help of Global Oversees Adoption Link (G.O.A'.L.) using my file obtained through the adoption agency, there is a real chance at finding out more about my origins and possibly making a connection with biological family. Now with my trip imminent and with the support of my loving partner, Sarah (who is fluent in Korean), I believe the time is right and I feel I'm ready.

Me and my grandma

My airfare and accommodations are all accounted for.

Donations would be used to offset the cost of other expenses;

Any donation amount helps, but more important than any monetary donations are your thoughts and support. I have no idea what to expect on this emotional journey, but I hope you will be there with me while I take this giant leap into finding out who I am and where I came from. No matter what happens, I only wish to know more about myself so that I can be my best self.

Thanks so much for reading and I hope to share more of this exciting journey with you as it unfolds!

With Love and Respect,

Matthew Hoiem