S. 555: Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act

The bill titled the Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act proposes to create a national registry for Korean American families who have been separated from their relatives in North Korea since the end of the Korean War in 1953. The primary goals of the bill include:

Establishment of a National Registry

The Secretary of State is tasked with the following:

1. Identification: Identifying Korean American families who wish to reconnect with family members living in North Korea.
2. Creation of a Registry: Establishing a registry to document the names and other relevant details of these families to facilitate possible reunions.

This registry will serve two main purposes:

• To make it easier for families to arrange in-person or virtual reunions.
• To maintain a record of information about these families, which may include details of those who have passed away.

Funding

The bill authorizes the allocation of $1,000,000 to the Secretary of State to implement the registry and associated activities.

Encouraging Dialogue

The bill encourages the Secretary of State to take steps to ensure that discussions between the United States and North Korea include provisions for holding reunions for these divided families. It requires that the Secretary consult with the South Korean government as necessary during these efforts.

Reporting Requirements

The Secretary of State is also required to include updates in annual reports regarding:

• The status of the national registry.
• The number of individuals who have met or have yet to meet their family members in North Korea.
• North Korea's responses to requests for family reunions.
• Actions taken by North Korea that impede the ability of these families to reunite.

Relevant Companies

None found.