Gothic arches frame windows. These windows tell tales of a church standing tall through Korea’s transformation. Chungdong First Methodist Church is more than bricks and mortar. It is a living testament to faith and progress.
Welcome to Chungdong First Methodist Church. It is a landmark rooted in Seoul’s Jeong-dong district. This church boasts a rich history. It marks several firsts in Korean Christianity.
The story begins in 1885. American missionary Henry Appenzeller arrived. He sought to spread the Methodist faith. Appenzeller acquired a traditional Korean house. He called it Bethel Chapel. This humble space marked the start of the congregation.
As the community thrived, a grander vision emerged. Church leaders envisioned a dedicated building. Ground was broken on September 9, 1895. Notable Korean figures like Soh Kwang-pom and Yun Chi-ho attended. After two years of dedicated work, the new Bethel Chapel opened on December 26, 1897. This marked a milestone. Chungdong First Methodist Church became the first Methodist church in Korea. It remains the oldest extant church from the 19th century.
Chungdong First Methodist Church achieved many firsts. It performed the first Methodist baptism in Korea on July 24, 1887. The church initiated the first Christian women’s group in 1889. It installed the first pipe organ. The first Western-style chapel was built here.
Beyond religious ceremonies, the church fostered intellectual growth. It housed the Trilingual Press publisher. Chungdong First Methodist Church played a role in early Korean publications. It was the headquarters for the Tongnip sinmun. This was Korea’s first private newspaper. Other publications include The Korean Christian Advocate. This was the first Christian newspaper in Korea. The church acquired Korea’s first privately-owned printing press.
The church building has evolved over time. In 1926, it expanded from a cruciform to a rectangular shape. The expansion used bricks. This ensured the original structure remained untouched. The architecture reflects a simplified American Gothic style. Arched window frames add to its charm.
In 1977, Bethel Chapel earned recognition as Historic Site No. 277. Today, Chungdong First Methodist Church continues its legacy. It holds worship services in both Korean and English. The church preserves its past. The Mangon Christian History Reference Room houses historical materials. A history museum opened on November 12, 2023.
As you stand before Chungdong First Methodist Church remember its enduring spirit. It is a place of worship, a historical landmark. It is a symbol of Korea’s journey into modernity. This church reflects faith and progress. It is a landmark that has shaped the nation.