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The LCMS began work in South Korea in 1958. In 1971, the Lutheran Church in Korea (LCK) became an LCMS sister/partner church. It is also a member of the International Lutheran Council. LCMS missionaries have continued to serve as educators at Seoul Foreign School and in short-term capacities at Luther Theological Seminary. The Korean Bethel Series is offered through the LCK and has trained leaders from many denominations in Korea. These seminars have been attended by more than 6,500 clergy and have enrolled 370,000 adults in different courses.
The Lutheran Church in Korea (LCK) reports a baptized membership of 6,000 in 50 congregations and has a national staff of 80 pastors, vicars and staff workers. The church operates Luther Theological, which includes a seminary through one of their graduate programs, with an enrollment of approximately 600 students. In recent years, the LCK expanded the programs offered through Luther University; it is now fully accredited and offers degrees in seven departments. In 2006, Luther University was given permission by the Ministry of Education to accept up to 200 new students each year. Currently, the LCK is focusing on starting new congregations and gaining membership.
The Korea Lutheran Hour continues to broadcast weekly over six stations. The number of those enrolled in correspondence courses now exceeds 750,000 people.
International Lutheran Church Seoul is an independent Lutheran congregation that affiliates itself with the LCMS. It is currently served by LCMS pastor Rev. Steve Kosberg. Learn more about International Lutheran Church Seoul at www.ilcseoul.net.
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