Mission History

International Lutheran Church, Lutheran Church of Korea, and National Council of Churches of Korea

Lutheran work began in Korea in 1958 through the missionary efforts of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The mission developed mass media programs, Christian literature, and social outreach work, and initiated the training of pastors through its Lutheran Theological Academy. Several congregations were started. The Lutheran Church in Korea (LCK) was officially organized in 1971 with five congregations.

The International Lutheran Church (ILC) was founded in the early 1960s to provide Lutheran pastoral services to US military and civilian personnel and their dependents stationed in Seoul. In the early years, 90% of the parish was military personnel and their families. However, in recent years the congregation has increased its ministry to diplomatic and business expatriate community, and now over two thirds of members are in this latter category.

Luther Seminary grew out of the Lutheran Theological Academy, which was begun in 1966. College level programs were offered both during the day and in evening classes. In 1983, the seminary moved to a new site and has expanded its facilities to meet the requirements of the Ministry of Education for full accreditation.