Growing Concerns Over Religious Freedom in South Korea
During last Sunday’s service at Saegero Church in Busan, South Korea, thousands of worshippers passionately sang, “All your life you have been faithful. All your life you have been very, very good…I sing of the mercy of God.” It’s remarkable how this congregation has expanded from about 20 members decades ago to a sprawling 23-acre campus buzzing with activity. After the service, church members, as they do weekly, prepared a complimentary lunch for anyone who chose to stay.
One elder mentioned that this tradition also allows the church to offer free meals for brides and grooms during weddings almost every weekend. This is a significant way for the church to address South Korea’s pressing issue of declining marriage and birth rates—some of the lowest globally—despite the lively young people performing on stage each service. Last year, the church even established a Christian school.
However, since August, the senior pastor, Pastor Song, has been imprisoned due to government charges alleging election interference. I had the chance to visit him and, interestingly, he ended up encouraging me instead. He instilled courage not only in me but also in his three children, who are voicing their support for him. Some other church leaders have also faced scrutiny from the state, while his wife spends many nights in church praying. Meanwhile, Pastor Song continues to share the gospel with fellow inmates and writes a book during his incarceration.
It’s possible that he crossed some lines within Korean law in his eagerness to voice opposition to the government’s progressive, socialist, and pro-LGBTQ stance. A fine might have sufficed, yet instead, he was arrested and now faces multiple charges and a lengthy detention. The actions suggest a clear intention from the government—this is reminiscent of the treatment faced by others politically active, like what happened to Jack Phillips in Colorado. Such processes seem designed to instill fear and silence dissent.
I asked whether this intimidation was working, or if others were still speaking out. While some were vocal, many others preferred silence, thinking, somewhat like some Americans, that Christians should steer clear of politics altogether.
In stark contrast, Christians in North Korea don’t have the luxury of even forming opinions. A tour guide shared that even possessing a Bible could lead to a life sentence in a labor camp. Freedom is scarce, regardless of one’s beliefs. Food is also in short supply.
Back in South Korea, the nation is experiencing what many call an economic miracle, showcasing industry, infrastructure, and innovation. It has been 75 years since the North’s invasion, and while progress has been made, there’s still a long way to go. Koreans feel they have ample reason to sing of God’s mercy, yet they also have grave concerns about Pastor Song’s treatment and the current regime’s infringement on religious freedoms.
Years ago, Chuck Colson alerted us to the concerning language used by certain American leaders. Rather than discussing “freedom of religion,” they opted for “freedom to worship.” Colson emphasized the critical difference between maintaining public life based on deeply held beliefs and merely allowing personal beliefs to exist in private. Although U.S. courts have largely upheld real religious freedom since then, progressive movements continue to erode those rights.
This seems to be a parallel situation unfolding in Korea right now. If this trend continues, blame will rightfully fall on those progressive lawmakers aiming to quash religious opposition and on Christians willing to overlook their beliefs. That would undoubtedly be a tragedy.
Please keep Pastor Song, his wife, and their children in your thoughts and prayers. Pray for the leaders and members of Saegero Church to remain steadfast and courageous during this challenging time. Additionally, keep his impending trial and sentencing in your prayers, which is set for later this month. And consider signing the petition urging the government to advocate for Pastor Song.
