In the heart of Seoul, stands the Kwanghui Holiness Church. This church, also known as Korea Evangelical Holiness Church, has a rich history intertwined with the growth of Protestantism in Korea. Kwanghui Holiness Church is a cornerstone of the Korean Evangelical Holiness Church denomination. It represents the fourfold gospel: regeneration, holiness, divine healing, and the second coming of Christ.
Kwanghui Holiness Church traces its roots back to the early 20th century. It began with the Dongyang Mission (One Mission Society), established in 1907. This mission played a key role in the formation of the International Apostolic Holiness Church. Key figures like Charles Cowman, Annie S. Cowman, and Ju Gi-cheol were instrumental in its development. They established the Jungang Gospel Mission Hall in 1907, marking a significant step in the church’s history. The church continued to grow, facing challenges and divisions along the way. It eventually adopted the name Kwanghui Holiness Church after the Korean War.
The Kwanghui Holiness Church has faced numerous trials throughout its existence. During the Japanese occupation, the church experienced persecution and suppression. Despite these hardships, the church persevered. It played a pivotal role in the post-war revival of the Korean church. The church’s commitment to the fourfold gospel and its emphasis on holiness have shaped its identity. Today, Kwanghui Holiness Church remains an active and influential presence in the Korean Protestant landscape. It continues to serve its community and spread its message throughout the country. Kwanghui Holiness Church is more than just a building. It is a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the Korean people.