Korean United Methodist Church

Did the Korean United Methodist Church always stand here on 115th Street? No. The Korean United Methodist Church, or KMCI, began its journey in 1921. Picture New York City buzzing with the aftermath of the 3.1 Movement, a powerful display of Korean resistance against Japanese rule. Korean New Yorkers, yearning for connection and a place to commemorate this pivotal moment, held their first service at Madison Avenue Methodist Church. The Korean United Methodist Church officially recognizes April 18, 1921, as its founding day. The church’s early years were deeply intertwined with the Korean independence movement. Members were often students, business owners, or independence activists seeking refuge and community. The church wasn’t just a place of worship. It served as a hub for intellectual discourse and political activism, fueled by its proximity to Columbia University and Union Theological Seminary. In 1923, the Korean United Methodist Church moved into its own building on West 21st Street. Just four years later, the church found its current home on West 115th Street in Morningside Heights. This move placed the church near Columbia University and Union Theological Seminary. This solidified its reputation as a center for intellectual thought and debate. The Korean United Methodist Church has seen its share of challenges and triumphs. After World War II and Korean independence, many members returned to their homeland. This left the church with dwindling numbers. However, a growing student population helped sustain the community. Through the Korean War and periods of political upheaval in Korea, the church served as a vital link to the homeland. It became a focal point for advocating for democracy and justice. With changes in US immigration policy, the Korean community in New York City grew significantly. The church experienced a resurgence. Its membership swelled, eventually requiring them to hold services at the nearby St. Hilda’s & St. Hugh’s School chapel. The Korean United Methodist Church became known as the “mother church,” giving rise to many other Korean churches in the city. In 2015, the Korean United Methodist Church embarked on an exciting new chapter. Construction began on a new building. The new church building was dedicated in 2021, marking a century of service and resilience. The church resumed regular services in 2022.