Re-Illuminating the Life of Rev. Jeon Deok-ki on the Centennial of His Death
2014-02-11 16:19
Church circles are planning various events to celebrate the life of Rev. Jeon Deok-ki (1875-1914, photo) this year, marking the 100th anniversary of his death.
Sangdong Church (Rev. Seo Cheol) organized the Jeon Deok-ki Commemorative Projects Committee last December, and made specific plans at its steering committee meeting on February 13. On March 13 there will be a memorial service, followed by an academic symposium titled “Why Jeon Deok-ki?” at the convention center of Chungmu Art Hall, Seoul.
At the 322nd Korean Christian History Society Symposium, organized by the Institute of the History of Christianity in Korea, Prof. Han Gyu-mu of Gwangju University made a presentation on the current situation and tasks for research on Jeon Deok-ki. He pointed out that Jeon’s involvement as a founding member of the Shinminhoe (“New People’s Society”) has drawn academic attention not only among Christian historians but among Korean historians in general.
Coming to Sangdong Church in 1907, Rev. Jeon spread the gospel to merchants at nearby Namdaemum Market, established the Shinminhoe along with An Chang-ho and Yun Chi-ho, and was actively involved in the anti-Japanese independence movement. He was arrested in 1911 during the “105 Persons Incident” and was severely tortured. After his release, he died from the effects of the torture.
Reporter Kim Kyungtaek (ptyx@kmib.co.kr), with Yeara Ahn-Park (yap@kmib.co.kr)
Click here for the original article in Korean
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