A "Korean orphan" typically refers to a child in South Korea who has lost one or both parents, often due to various circumstances such as illness, accidents, or abandonment. These children may live in orphanages or foster care systems, where they receive basic needs like food, shelter, and education. In the mid-20th century, particularly after the Korean War, many Korean orphans were adopted by families in other countries, including the United States. This led to a significant number of international adoptions, which brought attention to the challenges faced by Korean orphans and the need for better support systems within South Korea.