Saint Andrew Kim – First Korean Priest and Courageous Martyr

ST. ANDREW KIM

Saint Andrew Kim Taegon was the first native Korean Catholic priest and a martyr for the faith. He led underground Christian communities and was executed for bringing the faith into Korea.

Saint Andrew Kim Taegon was born on August 21, 1821, into a noble Korean family that had secretly embraced the Catholic faith. His father, a devout lay Catholic, was also martyred for the faith. From an early age, Andrew felt a deep calling to serve God and his persecuted fellow believers.

At that time, Catholicism was banned in Korea, and believers faced constant danger. Andrew left Korea secretly to study for the priesthood in Macao. He endured many hardships during his journey and formation, but his commitment to the Church and the Korean people never wavered.

In 1845, at the age of 24, Andrew Kim was ordained a priest — the first native Korean to achieve this. He returned to Korea in secret, risking arrest to minister to underground Christian communities. He offered the sacraments, instructed catechumens, and encouraged the faithful to remain strong in their trials.

His ministry was short but powerful. Within a year of his return, he was captured by authorities. During interrogation, he courageously affirmed his faith and identity as a Catholic priest. Despite torture and imprisonment, he remained firm. On September 16, 1846, he was beheaded at the Han River near Seoul at the age of 25.

Saint Andrew Kim was canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1984 along with 102 other Korean martyrs. He is remembered as a national hero and spiritual father of the Korean Catholic Church. His feast day is celebrated on September 20, along with Saint Paul Chong Hasang and companions.

Feast Day

20-9-1846

Birth Date

21-8-1821

Died Date

16-9-1846

Canonised Date

6-5-1984

Mirinae, Korea (later transferred to Seoul)

O Saint Andrew Kim, Brave witness of Christ and shepherd of souls, You gave your life for the Church in Korea. Inspire us to love our faith with courage, And remain faithful in every trial. Amen.
ST. ANDREW KIM

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ST. ANDREW KIM

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