RMG – SDB Provinces - The Salesian Province “Korean Martyrs” of Korea (KOR)

28 March 2025
RMG – SDB Provinces - The Salesian Province “Korean Martyrs” of Korea (KOR)

(ANS – Rome) - The Salesians of Don Bosco have a rich history of service in Korea, beginning in 1954 in the aftermath of the devastating Korean War. From the ashes of a war-torn nation, the Salesians have grown into a dynamic and forward-looking province, addressing the ever-changing needs of youth through education, pastoral care, and social outreach. Rooted in the charism of Don Bosco, the Korean Province continues to expand its influence locally and internationally, preparing for future challenges while staying faithful to its mission. 

This article highlights the incredible journey of the Salesian Province of Korea, from its humble beginnings to becoming a vibrant center of Salesian activity, with a special focus on its current initiatives and vision for the future. 

A Humble Beginning in the Wake of War 

The Salesians arrived in Korea in 1954, less than a year after the conclusion of the Korean War. The country lay in ruins, and the need for hope and reconstruction was immense. Divine providence played a key role in their arrival, as the US military chaplaincy established a fund in memory of the Venerable Fr Emil J. Kapaun (1916–1951), an American military chaplain who died heroically in a prisoner-of-war camp. This fund was used to build a school in Gwangju to address the urgent need for youth education, and the Salesians were invited to manage this initiative by Bishop Harold W. Henry, the Apostolic Prefect of Gwangju. 

Under the leadership of Fr Artemide Martelli, an Italian missionary, the Salesians began their work in Korea under the Japanese Province. Their presence grew steadily until 1972, when Korea was established as a Delegation directly under the Rector Major. It was elevated to a Vice-province in 1984 and finally to a full Province in 1991. Today, Fr Marcello Baek serves as the current Provincial Superior, inaugurated as the sixth Provincial on October 5, 2024. 

A Growing Presence and Expanding Mission 

The Korean Province now comprises 12 communities located in major cities such as Seoul, Busan, and Gwangju. A 13th community was established in Hwaseong in November 2024, focusing on pastoral care for migrant workers in this major industrial hub. Additionally, the Province manages a mission territory in an undisclosed location (since 1995) and operates a technical high school. Notably, in October 2024, the Mongolian missions were officially transferred from the Vietnamese Province to the Korean Province, further extending its reach. 

The Province is home to 132 Salesians: 92 priests, 20 brothers with perpetual vows, 18 seminarians in temporary vows, and 2 novices. Additionally, 8 aspirants studying philosophy are preparing for their Salesian journey. Despite this strong presence, the Province faces challenges such as aging members and a scarcity of new vocations, trends driven by Korea’s low birth rate and shifting societal priorities. 

Diverse Pastoral Activities 

The Salesian Province of Korea engages in a wide range of ministries, including: 

  • Education: Operating one high school with approximately 1,500 students.
  • Formation: Two formation houses with 30 initial formation confreres and one novitiate. 
  • Parishes: Managing one parish with about 4,000 parishioners.
  • Youth Outreach: Six youth welfare and correctional facilities housing 200 underprivileged youth, two oratory youth centers, and two retreat centers.
  • Social Communications: A publishing house and social communications center.
  • Counseling and Support Services: Two counseling centers, one migrant worker center, and a missions office. 

In addition to these, the mission territory includes two technical high schools and various centers. However, a vocational school focused on mechanical engineering was closed two years ago due to challenges in adapting to modern educational needs and a lack of student enrollment. 

The Salesian Family in Korea 

The Salesian Family in Korea is a vibrant network of collaborators and lay groups. It includes: 

  • Two female congregations: The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) and the Caritas Sisters of Jesus, with a combined total of 750 sisters.
  • Lay Movements: Approximately 30 VDB (Volunteers of Don Bosco), 500 Salesian Cooperators, and 30 members of ADMA (Association of Mary Help of Christians).
  • Alumni and Youth Movements: Tens of thousands of Don Bosco Past Pupils and over 100 active members in the Salesian Youth Movement. 

Seoul 2027: Preparing for World Youth Day 

A major focus for the Korean Province is the preparation for World Youth Day (WYD) 2027, which will take place in Seoul. Anticipating the arrival of 500,000 young people from across the globe, the Province is working diligently to organize a high-quality Salesian Youth Movement program. Following the tradition of Salesian programs at previous WYD events, the Province is excited to welcome young people and Salesians from around the world to experience the joy of Don Bosco’s charism. 

Future Challenges and Opportunities 

Looking ahead, the Province is actively pursuing new areas of ministry to address the changing realities of Korean society. One key priority is pastoral care for migrant workers, a growing need in a country with the world’s lowest birth rate and a rapidly aging population. This demographic shift has led to a sharp increase in foreign workers, making their pastoral care an urgent necessity. Collaboration with other Salesian Provinces has already begun, with a priest from Timor-Leste serving in this ministry and receiving high praise for his work. 

The Province is also exploring innovative methods to engage youth, such as integrating digital technologies and artificial intelligence into its educational and pastoral activities. Recognizing the rapidly changing landscape of youth ministry, the Province is committed to adapting its approaches to remain relevant and impactful. 

From its humble beginnings in post-war Korea to becoming a dynamic and forward-thinking Province, the Salesians of Don Bosco in Korea have left an indelible mark on countless lives. Through their commitment to education, pastoral care, and social outreach, they continue to embody Don Bosco’s mission of serving the young and the marginalized. 

As they prepare to welcome the global Salesian community to Seoul for WYD 2027 and address the challenges of a changing world, the Salesians of Korea remain steadfast in their dedication to building a brighter future for youth. Their journey is a testament to the power of faith, innovation, and unwavering commitment to Don Bosco’s vision.

View the embedded image gallery online at:
https://www.infoans.org/en/sections/news/item/23883-rmg-sdb-provinces-the-salesian-province-korean-martyrs-of-korea-kor#sigProId2c584ea727

InfoANS

ANS - “Agenzia iNfo Salesiana” is a on-line almost daily publication, the communication agency of the Salesian Congregation enrolled in the Press Register of the Tibunal of Rome as n 153/2007.

This site also uses third-party cookies to improve user experience and for statistical purposes. By scrolling through this page or by clicking on any of its elements, you consent to the use of cookies. To learn more or to opt out, click "Further Information".

Further Information