PASTOR NAMJU BYUN AND THE GWANGJU DEMOCRATIZATION MOVEMENT: AN INTERDISCIPLINARY ANALYSIS

Authors: Dr. Se-Ho Jang, Hui-Wen Lee, Dr. Mi-Kyeong Jung, Jong-Mi Park, Dr. Jong-Ok Seok, Min-Ji Jang & *Dr. Jun-Ki Chung

ABSTRACT

Although scholars have carried out comprehensive research on the 1980 “Gwangju Democratization Movement” (GDM) and the 1987 “June Democratic Struggle,” they have notably overlooked exploring the role of Protestant leaders throughout these crucial times in South Korea’s modern era. The lack of this data in the academic literature extremely limits our knowledge of the greater sociopolitical aspects that influenced these movements. Hence, the major goal of this research is to address this lack of knowledge by assessing Pastor Namju Byun’s stewardship and highlighting the significant contribution of Christian leaders as well as Christian communities to South Korea’s political movement. It is evident that Pastor Byun’s social and religious principles not only significantly contributed to the progress of the democratic movement but also provided steadfast leadership to his fellow believers. This research underscores the integral connection between political activism and Christian faith, focusing on how leaders like Pastor Byun exemplified faith-driven initiatives. By doing so, it seeks to demonstrate the transformative impact of Christian leadership on shaping social and political change.

Keywords: Christian activism, Gwangju Democratization Movement (GDM), June Struggle, Namju Byun, South Korea

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