Regarding Yeo's statement "Choi Jae-hyung must hide adoption fact"... 'Adoptive mother' Kim Mi-ae says "Terrible perception"

Choi Jae-hyung's Son Also Responds, "No Shame in Adoption"

Kim Mi-ae, member of the People Power Party./Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Kang Juhee] On the 20th, Kim Mi-ae, a member of the People Power Party known to have adopted two children, urged, "The Democratic Party of Korea should bow their heads and apologize to adoption families nationwide and the young babies waiting for adoption."

This was a criticism of former Democratic Party full-time deputy spokesperson Lee Kyung's remark directed at opposition presidential candidate former Board of Audit and Inspection Chairman Choi Jae-hyung, who said, "(The fact of the child's adoption) being revealed to the outside is absolutely not a good method." Former Chairman Choi adopted two sons in 2000 and 2006.

On the 20th, Rep. Kim held a press conference at the National Assembly and criticized former deputy spokesperson Lee, saying, "Are those who have been adopted and live as family members supposed to be thoroughly hidden? The appalling perception of adoption is regrettable and deplorable."

She continued, "Our society, which has entered the ranks of economically advanced countries, is exposed as it is, with an adoption culture that cannot flourish properly under the pressure of social prejudice based on the long-standing traditional mindset of blood relations," adding, "It is simply tragic and appalling to witness the low level of understanding of adoption among politicians belonging to the ruling party, who should be at the forefront of innovating such prejudices."

Rep. Kim said, "Like all children in the world, adopted children are also dignified beings who need love and care," and added, "Adoption parties are hurt and prejudices become entrenched amid harsh words that are too unpleasant to mention. Immediately kneel down and apologize to adoption families and children waiting for adoption. And do not mention the precious word 'adoption' with that mouth anymore."

Former Board of Audit and Inspection Chairman Choi Jae-hyung (center) is holding a meeting with the People Power Party spokesperson group in front of the National Assembly Members' Office Building in Yeouido, Seoul, on the morning of the 20th. Photo by Yonhap News

Earlier, former deputy spokesperson Lee appeared on TV Chosun's 'Current Affairs Show: This is Politics' on the 19th and said, "When I heard about former Chairman Choi's adoption, I thought he was a great person," but also argued, "If he truly has a deep love for the child, he should no longer talk about this."

He also said, "Although being told that one is adopted is emotionally good for the child, it is absolutely not a good method for it to be revealed to the outside," adding, "If it is inevitably revealed, from now on, the basics must be observed to prevent it from being known."

In response, Choi's adopted son, Mr. Choi, rebutted that "the fact of adoption is not shameful."

In a post on Facebook on the 20th, Mr. Choi emphasized, "Throughout my life, I have been truly healed a lot, and I am no longer ashamed but proud," adding, "Therefore, I hope my father would mention and convey this more. Because it can be a stepping stone and foundation for many children to overcome like me. Social awareness is also changing."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.