Beneath the vibrant tapestry of Seoul lies a story of faith, controversy, and unwavering resolve. This is the story of SaRang Community Church. SaRang Community Church, a Presbyterian church with a rich history, has faced its share of challenges. Founded in 1978 by Rev. Oak Han-heum, it grew to an astounding 80,000 members. Its growth, however, brought unforeseen difficulties. Originally located in the bustling Gangnam district, the church’s large crowds strained the area. Limited parking and the reliance on private vehicles caused discontent among members.
SaRang Community Church’s successor, Pastor Oh Jung-hyun, proposed a new chapel in the Seocho district. This decision, however, was met with strong opposition. The controversy stemmed from the church’s acquisition of a permit to occupy a public road, both during and after construction. This sparked an administrative lawsuit questioning the permit’s legality. The initial trial and appeal dismissed the lawsuit. The Supreme Court, however, intervened. The case was remanded back to the administrative court.
In 2017, the permit granted to SaRang Community Church was deemed illegal. The court ordered its cancellation. Despite appeals from both the Seocho District Office and SaRang Community Church, the Supreme Court upheld the ruling in 2019. Ordered to restore the public road, SaRang Community Church, as of July 2023, continued to defy the order. Amidst the legal battles, the church also faced internal scrutiny. Pastor Oh was accused of plagiarism, a claim he attributed to a simple mistake. Despite these challenges, SaRang Community Church remains a testament to the complex interplay of faith, urban development, and legal battles in modern Seoul. Its journey continues, a story etched into the very streets it sought to transform.