‘Tracing Roots’ … Korean Adoptee Cultural Festival to Be Held in Houston

[Picture=TexasN] At the Korean Adoptee Roots Festival held last year, a Korean adoptee family took part in the gathering, attentively listening as other adoptees shared their personal stories.

The 3rd Annual Korean Adoptee Cultural Roots Festival will be held on Saturday, October 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Asia Society Texas Center, offering Korean adoptees and the broader community a chance to reconnect with Korean heritage and share cultural experiences.

The festival is designed to provide adoptees with opportunities to explore identity, strengthen networks, and engage in cultural exchange with the Houston community.

The event will unfold in two parts: Part I (11 a.m.–1:30 p.m.) will feature networking and a community lunch, while Part II (2 p.m.–3 p.m.) will showcase cultural performances, including a traditional drumming performance by Newdot Samulnori. Participants will also be able to join hands-on activities that highlight Korea’s rich cultural traditions.

A special highlight will be a talk by Ed Yoo Pokropski, a Korean adoptee and author of ‘CASE 84: Adopted in the U.S.A.’ He will share his personal journey, reflecting on themes of identity, belonging, and the adoptee experience.

The event is hosted by Han Narea, a Houston-based traditional dance group, and supported by the National Center for the Rights of the Child (Korea), the Korean Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Consulate General of the Republic of Korea in Houston, the Korean Education Center in Houston, and the Austin URI Karak Dance Group.

Registration is free but space is limited, with sign-ups available email at HanNarea2016@gmail.com.

“We’ve prepared just as carefully as last year, and I hope this will be a day when adoptees can come together, share their Korean identity, and support one another.”, said Han Narea director Hyunsook Heo.

Catherine Wahrmund  amiangs0210@gmail.com