Seomgineun Church

Amidst Seoul’s vibrant cityscape stands Seomgineun Church. Do you hear whispers of history echoing through its walls? Seomgineun Church is not just a place of worship. It is a landmark of faith, a testament to resilience, and a beacon of hope. Officially established in September 1887, Seomgineun Church holds the distinction of being the first organized Presbyterian church in South Korea. Its founder, Horace Grant Underwood, a name synonymous with Korean Protestantism, also laid the foundation for institutions like Kyungsin High School, Yonsei University, and Severance Hospital. Seomgineun Church has been a silent witness to Korea’s transformation, a spiritual haven for prominent figures like Kim Kyu-sik, Ahn Chang-ho, and Choi Hyeon-bae. The church’s journey is etched in its very structure. Having occupied six different chapels throughout its history, each a reflection of a particular era, the current chapel, completed in 2019, is a marvel of modern architecture. Designed by Lee Eunseok, a renowned figure in religious architecture, the building’s unique design, reminiscent of a mother’s outstretched arms, has garnered international acclaim. Seomgineun Church’s sixth chapel stands as a testament to innovative design. It received the prestigious Architecture Master Prize in 2019, the first church building to achieve this honor. It was also a finalist for ArchDaily’s Building of the Year in 2020 and received the Jury Award in the Architizer A+ Awards the same year. In 2021, the chapel’s striking curved surface graced the cover of Phaidon’s “The World’s Best Architecture,” solidifying its place in architectural history. The story of Seomgineun Church, however, is not without its share of controversies. The appointment of Rev. Lee Sang-hak as senior pastor in 2017 sparked debate within the congregation. The confidential nature of the selection process and Rev. Lee’s sudden departure from his previous church left many feeling betrayed. Further controversy arose surrounding Rev. Lee’s doctoral dissertation, which challenged traditional interpretations of salvation and sparked discussions on the nature of sin and redemption. Seomgineun Church stands as a symbol of enduring faith, architectural innovation, and the complexities of religious leadership. It is a place where history whispers, where faith takes shape, and where the future unfolds. As you stand before Seomgineun Church, take a moment to appreciate its rich history, its architectural significance, and its enduring presence in the heart of Seoul.