Contents

The Remarkable Story of Ransa Kim's Pipe Organ at Chungdong First Church

Yeeun Kim curated the captivating story of Ransa Kim (1872-1919) and Korea's first pipe organ, which is a significant part of Korean Methodist history. Through Ransa Kim's inspiring journey as an early Korean Christian woman, Yeeun Kim sheds light on her remarkable contribution and resilience.

Korean Diaspora Church in Siberia

Prumeh Lee's curation of the Korean Methodist missions in early twentieth-century Siberia starts with her personal reflection on her family's history from Northern Korea. As a result of the Soviet Union's forced migration policy, the Korean Christian communities in Siberia were displaced to Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. Through her extensive research of rare archival resources, Prumeh uncovers the community's remarkable perseverance and eventual return to their original home in Siberia.

<Chan Mi Ka> (1902)

Jinseok Rho's curation of early Korean hymnals, <Chan Mi Ka>, is written in both Korean and English. It features a comparative analysis of Methodist and Presbyterian hymns, as these two denominations have a significant history of Protestant missions in South Korea and currently represent the largest Protestant groups in the country. As a Presbyterian pastor and a composer, Jinseok provides additional analysis of the difference between Korean and Western musical styles through his musicological expertise.

Baptism on Shipboard in Ganghwado

Pyongkang Kim's project sheds light on the earliest period of Korean Methodist history. He narrates the story of early Korean believers who overcame governmental persecution to receive baptism. Additionally, the Christian faith was expressed through the Korean traditional value of filial piety, with a son yielding the opportunity of baptism to his mother first. The memory and celebration of the Baptism on Shipboard in Gangwhado is a compelling example of the inception of Korean Christianity, which was centered around laypeople.

Heungseon Daewongun's change

In this work of “historical fiction”, Jongmin Ahn presents an alternative narrative about Heungsun Daewongun (1821-1898), a figure widely known for his anti-Christian and anti-Western policies. Through his hypothetical storyline, Ahn explores the possibility of what might have happened if Heungsun Daewongun had an open-door policy towards Christianity and even converted to the religion.

Mrs. Lillias Horton Underwood (1851-1921)

Eun Hyeong Ryu delves into the life and mission of Mrs. Lillias Horton Underwood, drawing a connection between his father's story of conversion and Underwood's missionary dedication and zeal. Ryu explores the question of what motivates missionaries to dedicate themselves to work that often appears fruitless and a waste of time. He concludes that the perseverance of missionaries who overcame hardship resulted in more than just evangelization; rather, Christianity in Korea became one of the elements that propelled the development of the nation-state.

Yoido Full Gospel Church

Min Lee's comprehensive project on Yoido Full Gospel Church explores the dramatic narrative of the world's largest megachurch. Set against the backdrop of South Korea's tumultuous history in the twentieth century, Lee provides a neat summary of the church's decisive moments.

Minjung Art & Theology

Leksmana Leonard's unique project on the latter half of the twentieth century South Korean 'Minjung' art and theology highlights the intersection of theology and art in interpreting modern Korean history. This development of Korean indigenous theology and social activism represents the justice-seeking aspect of Korean Christianity under authoritarian regimes that suppressed South Korean democracy.

History of Protestant Christianity in Jeju Island 

In this visually striking and accessible curation, Sungho Moon conveys the history of early Protestant Christianity in the southern island of Jeju, South Korea. In this small and beautiful island, the Christian community and diverse religious culture thrived. However, the tragic history of the 4.3 Massacre swept through the island, and the community experienced devastating consequences. At the end of the page, Moon suggests a message of hope on the island, showcasing the efforts for healing and reconciliation by Christians.