The article highlights the troubling realities surrounding international adoptions, particularly in South Korea, and the complexities of consent and rights involved. It recounts personal stories of mothers whose children were taken for adoption without their knowledge or under coercive circumstances, revealing the emotional trauma they endured. As the Truth and Reconciliation Commission transitions from its second to third phase, there is a renewed focus on uncovering the hidden narratives of those affected by past adoption practices, emphasizing the need for comprehensive investigations into these abuses.

The narrative brings to light specific cases, such as mothers who believed their children were stillborn only to discover later that they were adopted away, raising questions about the ethical implications of such practices. It also discusses the role of the commission and the challenges faced by investigative teams in communicating with overseas adoptees who often do not speak their mother tongue. The complexity of these situations underlines the urgency of addressing past injustices in adoption processes globally and seeking accountability.

As victims and their advocates start to voice their experiences, there is an impending demand for systematic inquiries into the mechanisms that facilitated these adoptions framed as benevolent acts. This pivotal moment for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission presents an opportunity to not only acknowledge past wrongs but also to forge a path toward healing and justice for those impacted by these troubling adoption practices.