UPDATE: A woman abandoned at a police station in South Korea as a baby has made a life-changing discovery—her sister—after nearly five decades of searching. Amber Nichols, now living in Seattle, Washington, received a text message that confirmed a full sibling match, igniting a long-awaited reunion that took place in August 2023.
Nichols was abandoned at just 10 months old and adopted by a couple eager to expand their family after experiencing multiple miscarriages. Growing up, she was aware of her adoption story and often felt the emotional weight of being different in a predominantly white community. “I always felt different, knew I stuck out,” Nichols reflected.
After years of searching for her birth family, Nichols had nearly given up hope. However, a news article in May 2025 led her to a company specializing in connecting Korean adoptees with their biological relatives. Determined to uncover her past, she submitted another DNA test, which resulted in an overwhelming match—a sister she never knew existed.
“I literally went numb,” Nichols described the moment she received the text confirming the match. Within days, she received a letter and photos from her sister, revealing the tragic circumstances surrounding their family. Nichols learned that her birth mother had passed away when she was just three months old, leaving her father to care for the remaining children.
The emotional depth of this discovery has been profound for Nichols. “I had a new pain in my heart, thinking about the deep pain my birth mother must be in,” she shared. The sisters’ journey culminated in an emotional reunion in Seoul, where they embraced for the first time. Nichols documented this pivotal moment on her TikTok account, @nicholsamber, garnering millions of views and inspiring others with similar stories.
Reflecting on her trip, Nichols expressed a newfound connection to her culture, stating, “The biggest surprise was how at home I felt in Korea.” The sisters are now in regular contact, texting and video calling, as they navigate the complexities of rebuilding their relationship.
As Nichols continues to process her emotional journey, she hopes her story resonates with others, stating, “We all have family wounds.” Her TikTok videos aim to foster community and understanding among adoptees and their families, shedding light on the often-hidden struggles of adoption.
This heartwarming reunion serves as a reminder of the bonds of family that can withstand time and distance, and it highlights the enduring impact of love and loss on our lives. Stay tuned for more updates as Nichols and her sister work to strengthen their connection and share their journey with the world.
