Our History
A timeline of advocacy, structural milestones, and community building.
KUMFA is Founded
KUMFA (Korean Unwed Mothers' Families Association) was established as a grassroots organization by unwed mothers seeking mutual support, solidarity, and a collective voice to challenge deep-seated social stigma.
The First Emergency Shelter
KUMFA opened its first temporary crisis shelter, providing a safe, stigma-free living space for pregnant women and new mothers who were pressured by families or society to choose adoption.
First Annual National Single Moms' Day
In partnership with adoptee networks like TRACK, KUMFA helped launch the first National Single Moms' Day on May 11th—strategically counter-programming the government's official 'Adoption Day' to advocate for family preservation.
Special Adoption Act Advocacy
KUMFA actively campaigned for revisions to the Special Adoption Act, requiring birth registration and family court approval for adoptions to protect children's identity rights and reduce rushed relinquishments.
Expansion of Advocacy & Educational Programs
Successfully secured funding and partnerships to expand educational programs, job training, and legal counseling resources directly aimed at establishing long-term financial independence for single-mother households.
National Network Growth
Established regional chapters and network support systems across South Korea, extending help to isolated mothers in rural and suburban areas outside of Seoul.
Child Support Enforcement Milestones
Lobbied alongside legal groups for stricter systemic penalties against non-custodial parents who fail to pay child support, leading to stronger government enforcement mechanisms.
Ongoing Family Preservation & Support
KUMFA continues to support hundreds of families annually, offering advocacy, emergency aid, community counseling, and public awareness campaigns to build an inclusive society.