The Salvation Army Seoul First corps

October in Seoul. A pivotal moment in time. The year is 1908. The Salvation Army Seoul First corps takes its first breath. Colonel and Mrs. Robert Hoggard arrive, ready to ignite a spark of faith. They carry with them the hopes of Korean students studying in Japan, who yearned for the Army’s presence in their homeland. The Salvation Army Seoul First corps quickly became a beacon of hope. The Hoggards, driven by their unwavering faith, traversed the Korean peninsula. They rode on horseback, sharing the gospel in every corner of the land. They held meetings by the wayside, in homes, and wherever people gathered. The Hoggards’ dedication laid the foundation for the growth of The Salvation Army in Korea. The Korean War tested the resilience of the Salvation Army Seoul First corps. Amidst the conflict, one officer and one corps sergeant-major made the ultimate sacrifice. Their names are etched in the annals of the Korean church as martyrs. Five other Salvationists are also believed to have been martyred during this turbulent period. Despite these hardships, The Salvation Army Seoul First corps persevered. It continued to serve as a source of comfort and strength. The spirit of the Salvation Army Seoul First corps remained unbroken. The legacy of Colonel and Mrs. Hoggard, the early pioneers, lives on. Their tireless efforts established a strong foundation for The Salvation Army in Korea. The Salvation Army Seoul First corps stands as a testament to their enduring faith and commitment to serving others.