Several regional presbyteries within the Presbyterian Church in Korea (Hapdong), led by Moderator Rev. Jong-hyuk Kim, have submitted proposals to the upcoming 110th General Assembly in September, calling for the denomination to refrain from participating in the World Evangelical Alliance (WEA) General Assembly scheduled to take place in Seoul.
Recently, presbyteries including Honam, Mokpo Jeil, North Hamgyong, Suncheon, and South Gwangju passed similar proposals during their regular meetings. The WEA Seoul Assembly Organizing Committee, co-chaired by Revs. Jung-hyun Oh from Sarang Church (also part of Hapdong) and Young-hoon Lee from Yoido Full Gospel Church (Pentecostal), previously announced that the 14th WEA General Assembly will be held in Seoul from Oct. 27 to 31.
The proposals reportedly argue that the denomination should not hastily participate in the Seoul assembly, citing ongoing suspicions surrounding WEA, including allegations of religious pluralism. The Hapdong denomination - the largest in Korea - had previously engaged in debate over the WEA's theological orthodoxy but ultimately postponed a final decision, yet adding caution against official involvement.
In particular, the North Hamgyong Presbytery passed a proposal prohibiting denominational pastors from attending, supporting or funding the WEA.
The proposal states, “In the midst of ongoing controversy within the denomination, Jung-hyun Oh of Sarang Church, who serves as chair of the church’s session, accepted the role of co-chair for the WEA General Assembly Seoul Organizing Committee, officially confirmed the hosting of the WEA 14th General Assembly, and held a thanksgiving worship service for the occasion. As a result, pastors and congregants of our denomination’s churches, as well as professors and students of our theological seminaries, are experiencing significant confusion.”
Separately, the Yeosu Presbytery passed a similar proposal during its fall meeting last year.
The increasing number of presbyteries raising concerns follow a statement by 1,300 church leaders opposing the WEA General Assembly due to theological and other issues. The WEA has not yet publicly commented.
Originally published by Christian Daily Korea, translated and edited by Christian Daily International staff.
