Presbyterian Church in Korea (Hapdong): History, Doctrine, and Growth
The Presbyterian Church in Korea (Hapdong), also known as Yejang Hapdong, stands as the largest Christian denomination in South Korea. Headquartered in Seoul, this Evangelical Presbyterian body plays a significant role in the religious landscape of the nation, characterized by its conservative theological stance and extensive missionary reach.
To understand the scale of this denomination, one must look at the broader context of South Korean Christianity. While there are approximately 15 million Protestants in the country, about 9 million belong to the Presbyterian tradition across more than 100 different denominations.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบKey Facts
- Classification: Protestant (Presbyterian)
- Theology: Evangelical Reformed
- Headquarters: Seoul, South Korea
- Membership: Approximately 2,556,182 members
- Congregations: 11,758
- Ministers: 24,855
- Primary Educational Institution: Chongshin University and Seminary
Historical Evolution and Schisms
The history of the Presbyterian Church in Korea is marked by several significant divisions, often stemming from theological, political, or ecumenical disagreements.
Early Divisions and the Shinto Controversy
The roots of these schisms can be traced back to the 1930s during the Japanese occupation of Korea. A major controversy arose when students were instructed to bow to Shinto shrines during worship. While some complied, others at the Pyongyang Theological Seminary resisted, citing biblical prohibitions. This resistance eventually led to the formation of the Presbyterian Church in Korea (Kosin) in 1946 through the establishment of Koryo Theological Seminary.
The 1959 Split: Hapdong vs. TongHap
A defining moment occurred in 1959 at the 44th General Assembly. The church split into two equal branches over the issue of ecumenism—specifically, whether the church should join the World Council of Churches (WCC). The more conservative faction, led by Park Hyun-nyon, formed the "Hapdong" (union body), while those supporting relations with the WCC formed the "TongHap" (united body). Today, these two groups remain the largest factions of Korean Presbyterianism.
Later Fragmentation and Growth
Following the 1959 split, further divisions occurred. In 1960, Hapdong briefly united with the Koshin group, but the union was short-lived. In 1961, the Bible Presbyterian Church (later known as the Presbyterian Church in Korea, Daeshin) also separated. Another division occurred in 1979 following a debate regarding the historical-critical approach to the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible) and the role of ChongShin Seminary.
Despite these divisions, the Hapdong branch experienced massive growth throughout the 1990s. By the early 2000s, it had established itself as the largest denomination in South Korea.
ไม่มีภาพประกอบTheology and Doctrine
Hapdong is defined by its Evangelical Reformed theology. The denomination adheres strictly to historic Presbyterian Confessions, which provide the doctrinal foundation for its faith. These include:
- The Apostles' Creed
- The Westminster Confession of Faith
- The Westminster Larger Catechism
- The Westminster Shorter Catechism
Social and Ethical Stances
The denomination maintains conservative views on several contemporary social issues. Regarding homosexuality, Hapdong declares it to be anti-biblical and against the order of creation, opposing same-sex partner rights and comprehensive anti-discrimination laws.
In a notable shift regarding women in ministry, while the denomination has traditionally followed conservative interpretations regarding female ordination, the 109th General Assembly in 2024 officially approved the preaching rights for female ministers.
Missions and Education
Global Missionary Reach
The church is a powerhouse in global evangelism through the Global Missions Society (GMS). As the largest Presbyterian missionary organization in South Korea and one of the largest in the world, the GMS supports over 2,500 missionaries working across Europe, Asia, Russia, Latin America, and Africa.
Training the Clergy
To maintain its theological standards, the denomination relies on specific institutions for pastoral training. Chongshin University and Chongshin Seminary serve as the only official educational institutions of the Hapdong Church for training its ministers.
Summary of Denominational Profile
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Theological Orientation | Evangelical Reformed |
| Polity | Presbyterian |
| Origin Year | 1959 |
| Primary Mission Body | Global Missions Society (GMS) |
| Official Website | gapck.org |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main theological difference between Hapdong and TongHap?
The primary distinction arose from the issue of ecumenism. Hapdong is a more conservative, evangelical group that opposed joining the World Council of Churches (WCC), whereas TongHap supports ecumenical relations with the WCC.
How large is the Hapdong denomination?
Statistics vary slightly by source; official records list approximately 2,556,182 members and 11,758 congregations, while Chongshin Seminary reports figures as high as 3 million members and 11,000 congregations.
Does the Hapdong church allow women to preach?
Yes. While the denomination has historically held conservative views on ordination, the 109th General Assembly in 2024 officially approved preaching rights for female ministers.
What is the Global Missions Society (GMS)?
The GMS is the missionary arm of the Hapdong General Assembly. It is one of the largest missionary organizations globally, with over 2,500 missionaries serving in various continents.
Where can ministers be trained for this denomination?
The official training for Hapdong pastors is conducted exclusively through Chongshin University and Chongshin Seminary.