Introduction / History

Koreans are believed to have ancestral links to the ancient Mongolians and Turks. They likely migrated to the Korean peninsula from as far away as the Siberian region. Distinct regional differences in culture and politics exist among South Koreans. The most important regional difference is between the Gyeongsang region in the southeast and the Jeolla region in the southwest. The two regions maintain a rivalry that reaches back to the fourth century AD. The rivalry originated from a struggle for control of the peninsula. Korean regional differences melt away among those who migrate to other countries like South Africa. They learn to get along and cooperate, since they are all minorities in a culturally different land.

Koreans first came to South Africa as cheap labor in the early 1900s. In 1992, they began bringing Korean businesses and their families there. Koreans are most likely to be found in the suburbs of Johannesburg.

What Are Their Lives Like?

South Koreans often come to other countries as students and businessmen, representing South Korean corporations. South Africa is one of these countries. Some come as students while others set up small businesses. They often bring their families. Koreans have three weekend schools for their children in South Africa. Like everyone else, Koreans have been victims of crime in urban South Africa.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Koreans are Christians or Buddhist, though many are secular. Many Koreans see religion as an inherited trait as much or more so than a faith. Also, many South Koreans practice elements of several belief systems including new religions and New Age spiritualities. Many modern, relativistic approaches to faith and hybrid religious belief systems exist. Christianity is the only faith that maintains distinct lines between those who belong to the belief system and those who do not.

There are Korean churches and six Buddhist temples in South Africa. These serve their religious and social needs.

What Are Their Needs?

Koreans needs continued clear and consistent representation of biblical Christianity. Koreans in South Africa need to see Christians living out Christ’s teachings about love, service, and faith.

Prayer Items

Pray that God will ignite passion for him and his word in among Koreans in South Africa.
Pray that Koreans will evangelize the lost in South Africa for the glory of God.
Praise God for the amazing missionary vision of the Korean Church!
Pray that Koreans in South Africa will draw the local people to join them as a vibrant mission force.

Scripture Prayers for the Korean in South Africa.

References

Wallace Revels
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Koreans_in_South_Africa