What if a church could hold the entire population of a small city? Right here, in the heart of Seoul, the Hapdong Church stands as a testament to the potent force of Christianity in South Korea. The Hapdong Church, officially known as the General Assembly of Presbyterian Church in Korea (GAPCK), is more than just a building. It’s a powerful symbol of faith, resilience, and a dramatic chapter in Korean history. The Hapdong Church is the largest Christian denomination in South Korea, boasting a membership that reaches into the millions.
The story of the Hapdong Church is deeply intertwined with the turbulent history of Christianity in Korea. In the 1950s, the Presbyterian Church of Korea experienced a series of schisms. These divisions were driven by clashes over theological interpretations, ecumenical relations, and forms of worship. In 1959, during the 44th General Assembly, the church split into two distinct bodies: the Presbyterian Church in Korea (TongHap) and the Hapdong Church. The key point of contention was the church’s relationship with the World Council of Churches (WCC). The Hapdong Church emerged as the more conservative faction, rejecting affiliation with the WCC. This conservative stance allowed the Hapdong Church to briefly unite with another Presbyterian denomination, the Koshin Church, in 1960.
The Hapdong Church has witnessed incredible growth, particularly in the 1990s. By the early 2000s, it had become a religious giant. The church’s influence stretches far beyond its impressive membership numbers. The Hapdong Church adheres to a conservative theological framework, upholding traditional Presbyterian doctrines and confessions. The church has faced controversies, including a recent scandal involving Light & Truth Church, a Hapdong-affiliated congregation, and its pastor Kim Myung-jin.
Despite these challenges, the Hapdong Church continues to play a prominent role in South Korean society. Its dedication to missionary work is evident through the Global Mission Society (GMS), one of the world’s largest Presbyterian missionary organizations, sending thousands of missionaries across the globe. The Hapdong Church, standing here before us, represents more than just a place of worship. It stands as a symbol of the enduring power of faith, the complexities of history, and the ever-evolving story of Christianity in South Korea.