Journey back to 1887. On an evening in September, Saemoonan Church began. It became the first organized church in Korea under Reverend H.G. Underwood.
Rev. Underwood and 14 baptized Korean Christians gathered. They worshipped in a Chungdong, Seoul home. One member was baptized that night. Two members were appointed as church elders.
In its early years, Saemoonan Church met in a Korean-style house. It stood in front of Underwood’s residence. As the congregation grew, a new building was needed. It was built near the City Bank building. This was across from Gyeonghui Palace. In May 1910, the church moved to its present location.
Saemoonan Church expanded. It established branch churches in Seoul and the Kyeonggi area. This fulfilled its role as a mother church. The church also strengthened internally. In 1904, Song Sunmyeong became an elder. He actively worked to energize the church.
After 1910, Reverend Seo Kyeongjo joined. He was one of Korea’s first seven reverends. He strengthened the church’s internal organization. In 1920, Reverend Cha Jaemyeong was appointed. He had been a deacon and elder. He became the second reverend and first Head Pastor in Korea. Reverend Cha reorganized the monthly committee meeting and choir. He strengthened Saemoonan’s capacity.
In 1944, Reverend Kim Yeongju became the third reverend. He devoted himself to rebuilding after Korea’s liberation from Japan in 1945. Tragically, he was abducted to North Korea during the Korean War.
Reverend Kang Sinmyeong was appointed in 1955. The church experienced a spiritual revival. Its reputation grew. The administration was reorganized. Various organizations were improved. The H.G. Underwood Memorial Hall opened in September 1967. The church started volunteer services for rural communities and medical missions. It began evening educational programs. After Reverend Kang’s appointment, membership increased greatly. The current church building was built in November 1972. In April 1973, “85 years of Saemoonan Church” was published.
In April 1981, Reverend Kim Dongik became the fifth reverend. “100 years of Saemoonan Church” was published in 1994. Overseas mission activities started. The Vladivostok Seminary was established in 1996. The Korean-Thai Mission Center was consecrated in 1998.
Reverend Lee Sooyoung was appointed in September 2000. He expanded the educational infrastructure. This included Saemoonan Teachers’ Institute. The Saemoonan Volunteer Training Center opened in 2007. Saemoonan Academy followed in 2009.
Saemoonan Church stands as the mother church of Korean Presbyterianism. It was the first messenger of the gospel to Korea. It has shown deep faith in mission work. It has fostered cooperation among churches. Saemoonan affirms its commitment to its mission. Saemoonan Church’s story is one of faith. It shows resilience and dedication to spreading the gospel. It has played a vital role in Korean religious history. Its legacy continues to inspire.