South Korea has one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, producing electronics, automobiles, heavy equipment and a myriad of other items. New apartment buildings, factories and commercial buildings are constructed at an astounding rate, especially in the larger cities. The country of South Korea is emerging as a world economic power. It’s also about to receive a missionary from our synod!

Pastor Young Ha Kim has been called by the ELS Board for Foreign Missions to serve as an exploratory missionary to South Korea. He will be exploring the possibility of establishing a permanent mission in that country, probably near the capital city of Seoul or in a new area in the city of Paju, about an hour from the capital city.

Pastor Kim has been serving in Irvine, California for several years, bringing the Word and sacraments to the members of Asian Mission Church. Through his work in Irvine, Pastor Kim has made many contacts with families in South Korea. These connections, along with family members who live in this new mission field, will give Pastor Kim a starting point to begin his work.

God has provided the open door to work in Korea. This exploratory work was made possible through generous donations from synod members. If the Holy Spirit blesses this work and a permanent mission can be established, our synod will have a base for future work in other nearby fields.

Please pray for Pastor Kim and his family as they move and begin the work God has set before us. Pray that God will open many hearts to receive His Word with joy. And give thanks to God for this incredible new opportunity for the ELS to bring the saving Gospel to the people of South Korea through Pastor Kim!

Paul Fries is pastor of Bethany Lutheran Church in Luverne, Minnesota and a member of the ELS Board for Foreign Missions.