“Isn’t it remarkable that the oldest Presbyterian church in South Korea stands right here? We’re standing before Saemoonan Church. It is more than just a building. It’s a testament to the enduring power of faith.
Saemoonan Church’s story begins in 1887. American missionary Horace Grant Underwood founded it. He also established Underwood School, now Kyungsin High School and Middle School. Underwood founded Yonhi College too. It is now Yonsei University. Severance Hospital was also one of his creations.
Saemoonan Church is known as the “Mother Church of Korean Protestantism”. It is the first organized Presbyterian church in South Korea. Kim Kyu-sik was associated with Saemoonan Church. Ahn Chang-ho was too. Choi Hyeon-bae was also connected. These figures shaped modern Korean history.
Underwood baptized one person in September 1887. He appointed two elders. This small group of fourteen Koreans marked the church’s beginning. Saemoonan Church has had six different chapels. The latest chapel was constructed from 2014 to 2019.
Lee Sang-hak became the senior pastor in 2017. Before this he served at Pohang Cheil Church.
Lee Eunseok designed the sixth chapel. He is an authority in religious architecture. Its unique design resembles a mother’s arms spread wide. It provides much community space. The design attracted media attention.
The church modified the initial design. Yet the unique facade remained. It led to international recognition. Some believe the interior does not match the exterior. Some architects think the original plan would have been better. Others are glad part of it was saved.
Saemoonan Church’s sixth chapel has won many awards. In 2019 it won the Architecture Master Prize for Cultural Architecture. In 2020 it was a finalist for ArchDaily’s Building of the Year. It received the Jury Award in the Religious Architecture and Memorials category of the Architizer A+ Awards in 2020. The chapel’s curved surface was on the cover of Phaidon’s ‘The World’s Best Architecture’ in 2021.
Saemoonan Church faced controversy. Lee Sang-hak’s appointment caused conflict. He left Pohang First Presbyterian Church without telling his congregation. Some members felt betrayed. The selection process was confidential. Lee said it was “God’s will.” Many found it hard to accept.
Lee Sang-hak’s dissertation also stirred debate. In 2011, he received his doctorate. His dissertation focused on “Sin and Salvation Based on the Han Experience of Koreans.” He suggested shifting to an image of healing. He said punitive interpretations of the crucifixion could negatively impact those with “han” which means deep-seated grief or resentment. He used the term “illegitimate child” to describe Jesus’ birth. This sparked controversy. Saemunan Church requested an investigation.
Saemoonan Church stands as a symbol of faith. It embodies architectural innovation. It reflects ongoing theological discussions. Its history is complex. Its impact is undeniable.”