South Korea's first cardinal, a prominent figure in the Catholic Church, known for his advocacy of democracy and human rights during the country's authoritarian era.
As the Archbishop of Seoul from 2012 to 2021 and the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Pyongyang in North Korea, Andrew Yeom Soojung has dedicated his life to spreading the message of Christianity and promoting peace and reconciliation in Korea.
Born on December 5, 1943, in Ansong, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, Andrew Yeom Soojung was born into a devout Catholic family with a rich history of faith. His ancestors, including his great-great-grandfather and his wife, were executed during the Joseon dynasty's persecution of Christians, yet they remained steadfast in their beliefs. This strong foundation laid the groundwork for Yeom's own priestly vocation, which was nurtured by his family's daily prayers and his grandmother's and mother's 30-year devotion to attending daily Mass.
After entering the seminary at the age of 15, Yeom was ordained as a priest of the Archdiocese of Seoul by Cardinal Kim Souhwan on December 8, 1970. He went on to graduate from the Catholic University of Korea in 1970 and later obtained a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology from Korea University. His studies took him to the East Asian Pastoral Institute in the Philippines, where he refined his skills in serving various parishes.
In 2012, Yeom was appointed as the Archbishop of Seoul, a position he held until 2021. During his tenure, he worked tirelessly to promote peace and understanding between North and South Korea. He was made a cardinal by Pope Francis in 2014, a testament to his dedication to the Catholic Church. As the chairman of the Catholic Peace Broadcasting Corporation (CPBC), Yeom played a crucial role in disseminating the message of peace and reconciliation to a wider audience.
Throughout his career, Andrew Yeom Soojung has emphasized the importance of faith, family, and education. He has stressed the need for interfaith dialogue and cooperation, particularly in the context of the Korean Peninsula. His commitment to peace and reconciliation has earned him recognition both domestically and internationally.
In recognition of his contributions to the Catholic Church and his tireless efforts towards peace and reconciliation, Andrew Yeom Soojung has received numerous awards and honors, including his appointment as a cardinal in 2014.
Andrew Yeom Soojung's dedication to peace, reconciliation, and education has had a profound impact on modern Korean society. His leadership has inspired a new generation of Catholics to follow in his footsteps, and his message of love and compassion has transcended religious boundaries.
Through his tireless efforts, Andrew Yeom Soojung has left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and Korean society as a whole. His legacy serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring people to strive for peace, understanding, and reconciliation in the face of adversity.
89 Years Old
The leader of the Catholic Church, known for his progressive stance on social issues and efforts to reform the Church, inspiring millions worldwide.
Born in 1920
Leader of the Catholic Church from 1978 to 2005, known for helping to end communism in Poland and being a charismatic advocate for human rights and social justice.
Born in 1538
A 16th-century Italian reformer who played a key role in the Counter-Reformation, implementing significant reforms within the Catholic Church, and was known for his piety and charitable works.
