mission trips to korea

(your journey here)

Volunteer in south korea.

Ancient meets cutting edge in the unique character of South Korea. As one of the most technologically and scientifically advanced countries in Asia, South Korea is still loyal to its Confucian legacy, seeking harmony and balance in all areas of life. Tireless efforts by South Koreans have led to a tremendously successful recovery from both World War II and the Korean War. In South Korea, sunny springs are followed by hot, rainy summers, which then give way to a bountiful autumn showing of colors every year. Many travelers come to see its modern cities, but with beautiful mountains, enchanting ancient temples, and serene rice paddies, South Korea is an ideal destination for all.

United Planet is the US and Canadian member of the International Cultural Youth Exchange, or ICYE. As a volunteer in South Korea, you will be hosted by ICYE South Korea , ICYE’s South Korean partner organization. ICYE South Korea has been helping volunteers help South Korean communities since the mid-1980s.

Project Information

Social work, country highlights.

Photo by pelican

Visit the Insadong Tearooms

Photo by garycycles

Visit Seoraksan National Park

Photo by Jirka Matousek

Participate in the Boryeong mud festival

Photo by Steve A.

Take a day-trip to Guinsa temple complex

Quest fees and details.

United Planet Quests are designed to be immersive, authentic, comprehensive and provide you everything you’ll need to succeed. The program elements allow you to engage fully with a new culture, forge strong relationships, and challenge yourself. Most importantly, we partner with the community to ensure your experience will be important, relevant and helpful to the community you serve.

Included in Your Quest

• Extensive pre-departure preparation, including a training weekend in New Hampshire with United Planet staff or online
• Food and lodging in your host country
• Airport transfers
• Emergency medical insurance
• In-country orientation upon arrival and ongoing support and supervision throughout your Quest
• Language training
• Mid-year camp (for 1 year volunteers) and final camp
• Monthly stipend for incidental expenses

Requirements

• 19 – 27 years old
• Citizen or resident of the United States or Canada

Start Dates and Travel

• Volunteers are responsible for booking and covering the cost of their own flights (including pre-departure training).
• Volunteers will obtain the necessary visas with support from our Long-Term staff to volunteer in their host country.

Quest Fee and Deadlines

About our quest fee.

We want you to succeed. That means having in place the support our volunteers need. We don't just drop you in country and hope for the best. We provide training before you leave … language exposure … 24/7 in-country support … support for your host family … accommodations, meals and airport transportation … activities and excursions. The whole idea is to make the experience successful and productive for you and the host community, and we have found that these things are crucial. Remember that we are a non-profit, mission-driven organization – we wouldn’t spend money on something that wasn’t important.

Have questions? We’re here for you. We’d love to help.

Get in touch with us.

United Planet is an international non-profit organization with a mission to create a global community, one relationship at a time. We connect people who want to make a difference in communities across the world through overseas volunteer travel programs, global virtual internships & volunteering, and project-based virtual exchange programs. With opportunities in more than 40 countries, you will learn, teach, work, engage and immerse yourself in a culture outside your comfort zone. For many, volunteering abroad is the most fulfilling experience of their lives !

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South Korea

Overview: South Korea, also known as the Republic of Korea, is a modern nation with a rich history. Once a united country on the Korean Peninsula, South Korea now is the southern part of a split Korea. North Korea, its neighbor, grabs many headlines here in the U.S. for its political views and relationship with the nations in the region. Regardless of what the media portrays, South Korea still very much desires to unite (when the time is right) with the North. Although it has an established Christian Church, Christianity accounts for only 30% of the overall population, making the sharing of the Gospel an important need.  South Korea is a wonderful place to serve alongside brothers and sisters in Christ from another continent while reaching even more people with the Gospel.

Ministry Description: While in South Korea, your group will be sharing Christ while teaching basic English to children. Using curriculum developed by Base Missions and Awana Korea, you will run 3-5 day English camps. During these camps your group will have time for instruction, games, songs with motions, and a chance to share about who Jesus is and how He has made a difference in your life.

Included in your trip: Base Missions provides you with an opportunity to train and send your group on a mission experience that will be a catalyst for evangelism when they return home. You will receive a leader guide to coach you throughout your mission experience and 24/7 personal support should you have questions. Before you go, Base Missions staff will visit your site to make sure your ministry will be sustainable, effective, and impactful.

Food and Lodging: You will be staying in a local missionary's home, a mission guest house, or church. While you are there, your hosts will prepare authentic local food for you.

Recommended Age Limit:  We recommend sending people no younger than 15 to this location. 

Airport and Transportation: Base Missions will arrange all of your in-country transportation during your trip, as it is included in the trip cost. 

Visa and Passport: A visa is not required for this trip. A passport that is valid for at least 6 months after your trip dates is required. Passport fees are not included in the trip prices.

Vaccinations: Please consult your doctor, local travel clinic, and the CDC (Center for Disease Control) website at www.cdc.gov for information on appropriate vaccinations for South Korea.

Sample price above is for a 7-day mission trip. Prices may vary upon location and number of days at mission site.

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News & Updates

See & read about what is going on in the warm beach camp & conference center community, south korea, a life-changing mission experience.

The people of the Myungsun Church in Suwon, South Korea, have embraced Warm Beach Camp as a ministry partner with whole hearts. They even have a memorial table on our grounds overlooking Port Susan Bay commemorating the partnership in ministry that began in 2010. Myungsun Church conducts outreach through English language classes and camps. Having native English speaking staff helping with the program adds greatly to the appeal of the program. Myungsun also brings over 30 youth to America each year for cultural experiences including a week of summer camp at Warm Beach Camp. These youth come for the “American experience” and, we hope, leave with Jesus.

In 2010, Warm Beach Camp sent over our first mission team to work with the Koreans on an English Camp and a leadership and cultural exchange program for Myungsun Church’s young adults. Since then, Warm Beach Camp has sent teams to Korea. Some team members teach our English curriculum while others lead games, sports, crafts, and music. In a friendly and hospitable manner, our Korean hosts quickly become friends. Cross-cultural relationships enrich our lives and truly become a valued part of the rest of our lives.

This year, the Warm Beach Korea Mission Team still has space available for both adults and teens age 14+ who desire to serve and share the love of Christ. Warm Beach Camp provides team leadership and plans the curriculum and schedule with our Korean hosts. Team members generally come from a variety of communities and quickly bond over the two weeks they are in Korea. This year’s trip is July 29-August 11. The cost is only $2,250 which includes airfare, lodging, meals, and ground transportation. Not only is Korea an amazing mission experience, but is also one the most affordable trips you’ll find outside of North and Central America.  

For more information and to request an application packet, please email Jo Reed at [email protected] or visit www.warmbeach.com/programs/global-initiatives/WarmBeachCamp-Korea .

God Speaks through Rosie

News | apr 24, 2024.

Meet Adriene, the new Disabilities Ministries Coordinator

General news ,  news | apr 12, 2024.

New program, Camp SunSparrow, opening this summer!

News | apr 11, 2024.

Organization Location: South Korea

SOUTH KOREA

There is a strong, established Church in South Korea. But living alongside native Koreans are also a large and growing number of international residents. Some are migrant workers or refugees from other parts of Asia; others are international students attending South Korean universities. Most are economically disadvantaged, and most are also unreached.

We have a new and growing team with a vision to reach out to these distinct groups of internationals (students, migrant workers, and refugees) through a new ministry called Diaspora Ministry. We want to reach Asia and even the world by reaching diasporan groups residing in South Korea.

MEET THE TEAM

Chung, grace.

Grace serves in South Korea, bringing the love of Christ to those in need.

Lee, Jonathan & Joy

Jonathan and Joy will begin to build a ministry team to reach North Korean refugees, migrant workers, and local and international college students in South Korea.

Jonathan and Joy will begin to build a ministry team to reach North Korean refugees, migrant workers, and local and...

GET INVOLVED

The benefits of missions work among the nations in south korea.

As a child in South Korea, Jonathan never met a foreigner. Today he sees them everywhere. Migration has opened wide new doors to ministry.

Pray for God's work among the nations in South Korea through MTW's Diaspora Ministry.

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Mission Trips

Looking for short-term mission trips with everything organized for you? Every year, International Volunteer HQ supports more than 15,000 people to volunteer abroad on mission trips in 40+ countries around the world. Since 2007, IVHQ has helped more than 136,000 volunteers complete mission trips to Africa , Asia , Europe , South America , Central America , North America , the Caribbean , Middle East , and the Pacific .

IVHQ offers safe, social and fully-supported mission trips for teens , college students , families and individuals at any stage of life, as well as for those seeking summer mission trips and medical mission trips . With long-term and short-term mission trips starting at just $20/day including accommodation, meals and 24/7 in-country support, IVHQ is the world’s leading mission trip organization.

IVHQ offers both short-term and long-term mission trips with durations ranging from 1 to 24 weeks. Through IVHQ, you can choose from a diverse range of volunteer projects to support, inclduing: childcare volunteering , wildlife conservation , environmental conservation , medical volunteering , teaching abroad , and much more. These international volunteer opportunities enable you to support locally-driven projects that uplift under-resourced communities around the world.

If you’re looking to join a mission trip in 2024 or 2025, we’ve outlined IVHQ’s most popular types of mission trips and all the information you need to know to find your perfect mission.

What is a mission trip?

A mission trip is an international volunteering opportunity centered around collaborative efforts with local communities to provide essential support where it is most needed. These trips can be either religious or non-religious in nature, aiming to uplift individuals, local communities, and natural environments across the globe. IVHQ offers inclusive volunteer abroad programs that welcome participants of all ages and life stages.

Through IVHQ’s diverse range of mission trips , individuals can make a tangible impact while fostering new friendships, discovering diverse cultures, and broadening their horizons—all while contributing to the well-being of those who require assistance the most.

Why do people go on mission trips?

Mission trips are a popular way to combine your desire to travel and see with world with your motivation to give back and make a difference in the world. While some people see mission trips as an opportunity to put their faith into action, others go on mission trips for a variety of non-religious reasons, including:

To make a difference: Many people go on mission trips make a positive impact in the world through providing support to communities in a range of different ways. This could involve volunteering to teach English , building schools or homes , providing medical care , volunteering with animals or supporting environmental conservation .

To gain a new perspective: Traveling to a new country and immersing yourself in a different culture can be a life-changing and transformative experience. Mission trips allow you to see the world with fresh eyes and gain a better understanding of different cultures and ways of life.

To meet new people: Mission trips offer an opportunity to connect with people from all around the world. International volunteers work together towards a common goal, often forming life-long friendships and connections along the way.

To get out of your comfort zone : Mission trips are an opportunity to discover a new sense of purpose by stepping out of your comfort zone, discovering new countries and cultures, and living like the locals. This can be equally challenging and rewarding! Taking a mission trip is an opportunity to growth as person, discover your strengths and weaknesses and redefine your purpose in life.

While people go on mission trips for a variety of reasons, at the heart of it is a desire to make a positive impact on the world, connect with others and build a better future together.

I recently returned from a mission trip to Sri Lanka and it was everything I dreamt it would be. I lived with a family in the jungle next to the longest river in the country, volunteering in a disabled childcare center. I was so happy with the project and had a wonderful - and sometimes challenging - experience. I would recommend this mission trip to anyone who wants to travel alone.

How much does it cost to go on a mission trip?

The cost of going on a mission trip varies depending on the destination and duration of the trip. IVHQ makes mission trips accessible to volunteers worldwide through affordable volunteer program fees and flexible durations.

For example, the cost of a 2-week mission trip with IVHQ to Tanzania is US$415, while a 4-week trip to India is US$585. These costs cover accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, and in-country support from IVHQ’s local team.

Additional costs that volunteers need to consider include the IVHQ registration fee , airfares, travel insurance, and any necessary visas or vaccinations. However, IVHQ provides detailed information and support to help volunteers prepare for their mission trip and manage these additional costs.

It’s worth noting that IVHQ also offers a range of fundraising ideas and resources to help volunteers cover the costs of their trip. For example, volunteers can create a fundraising page via IVHQ’s fundraising partner and share it with friends and family to collect donations.

IVHQ’s fees are transparent and inclusive, making it easy for volunteers to plan and budget for their trip without breaking the bank.

Why do a mission trip with IVHQ?

If you’re looking to join a mission trip, you likely have a social or environmental cause in mind that you’d like to contribute to. Just as you place importance on the program you join, it’s equally as important to choose a responsible mission trip organization.

At IVHQ, we believe that mission trips should contribute positively towards society. Environmental and social impact has always been at the heart of what we do, which is why we’ve undergone rigorous assessment to become a Certified B Corporation , holding us to the highest ethical standards. We’re also the first and only global volunteer travel provider to declare a Climate Emergency and our operations are certified as 100% carbon neutral.

With a B Corp stamp of approval , Program Fees starting at just $20/day including accommodation, and more than 16 years of experience , IVHQ is proud to be the mission trip organization of choice for thousands of individuals and groups looking to take a meaningful mission trip in 2024 & 2025.

Best mission trip opportunities across the globe

IVHQ offers a range of meaningful volunteer programs in Tanzania, Zambia, Victoria Falls, Madagascar, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, Zanzibar and Namibia. Explore Africa’s beauty while conserving endangered wildlife or giving back to local communities in need.

Available in 11 countries

IVHQ offers volunteer programs in 15 incredible destinations across Asia, including Bali, Cambodia, China, India, Laos, Nepal, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. Discover new cultures and play a hands-on role in supporting local social and environmental projects.

Available in 10 countries

North America

Join a volunteer program in Mexico or the USA and choose from a range of meaningful projects, from Childcare and Teaching to Animal Care and Environmental Sustainability. IVHQ’s North American volunteer opportunities are based in New Orleans, or in Merida, Mexico.

Available in 2 countries

Central America

Based in the popular destinations of Costa Rica and Guatemala, IVHQ offers a range of impactful volunteer programs in Central America. Support community initiatives, work alongside locals and embrace unique cultural traditions for up to 24 weeks.

South America

IVHQ’s volunteer trips to South America are based in iconic Latin American locations across Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. With unique opportunities in Teaching, Construction, Wildlife Conservation, Medical, Amazon Jungle Conservation, and more, there’s something to suit every volunteer!

Available in 6 countries

IVHQ’s Caribbean volunteer opportunities are based in and around the stunning islands of Jamaica, Belize, Trinidad and Tobago, and Puerto Rico. Give back to the local community through Teaching, Marine Conservation, Childcare, Animal Care and other impact led volunteer projects.

Available in 4 countries

Discover Europe’s rich culture and history on a volunteer program in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Romania or Croatia. Choose from a range of meaningful projects including Wolf Conservation, Youth Support, Teaching, Childcare, Special Needs Support, Environmental Scuba Diving and more.

Middle East

Explore the Middle East on a volunteer trip to Jordan. Choose from a range of community projects such as Youth Support, Women’s Education, Teaching and more. When you’re not giving back, you can explore the Middle East’s unique culture through our exhilarating tours and add-ons.

Available in 1 country

Experience the vibrant culture and welcoming communities of the Pacific on a volunteer trip with IVHQ. Choose from a range of life-enriching programs, from preserving the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and coastal waterways in New Zealand to teaching on the beautiful island of Fiji.

Available in 3 countries

Find the best mission trip for you

• Teens & High School Students
• College Students
• Summer Trips

Mission trips for teens & high school students

Joining a mission trip is one of the best ways to step outside of your comfort zone, gain new perspective and give back to communities in need. IVHQ offers a range of mission trips for high school students and teens , meaning you don’t need to be 18 to go abroad and make a difference.

Since 2007, IVHQ has supported thousands of young people to volunteer around the world on our youth mission trips. More than 20% of our volunteers are under 20, so we know a thing or two about providing life-changing, reliable travel experiences for young explorers.

We offer safe and affordable volunteer opportunities for teens and high school students in 17 destinations around the globe. Learn more about how to join a mission trip for under 18s .

Top mission trips for teens & high school students:

Volunteer in costa rica.

Volunteer in Guatemala

Volunteer in Tanzania

Mission trips for college students

Today’s student demographic is more progressive than ever before. That’s why student mission trips have become a popular alternative to studying abroad. Instead of studying abroad, many are opting for a more meaningful form of international travel - one that is regenerative and makes a positive impact on local communities.

IVHQ offers mission trips for college students in more than 40 countries around the world. Our mission trips to Africa are particularly popular amongst students. With fees starting at just US$20 per day, our low-cost mission trips are an affordable way for students and young professionals to discover a new country and gain a global perspective while making the world a better place.

When you go on a mission trip with IVHQ, you also have the opportunity to gain academic credit while you volunteer from as little as US$599 for 5 credits - making a super affordable alternative to studying abroad!

Top mission trips for college students:

Volunteer in peru.

Volunteer in Victoria Falls

Volunteer in Zambia

Mission trips for families

Planning a family mission trip can be a challenge, especially if you’re trying to accommodate multiple age groups. IVHQ’s fully-hosted mission trips mean that you can get away and make a difference without having to coordinate and plan for the entire family. The best part? Lots of IVHQ programs offer private room and accommodation upgrades at a very affordable price!

If you have young children, IVHQ has great options that will give you quality time together while instilling the values of service. Family mission trip opportunities are available in Africa , Asia , Europe , Central America and South America .

Our team of Volunteer Travel Experts can provide you with personalized family mission trip recommendations to match your budget and the causes you care about. Learn more about how you can go on a mission trip as a family .

Top mission trips for families:

Volunteer in kenya.

Volunteer in Portugal

Best short-term mission trips

IVHQ offers short-term mission trips for 1 to 3 weeks in over 40 countries, starting at just $20 per day including accommodation . This means you can get away and experience a new culture without needing to take ample time away from your day-to-day priorities.

Our short-term mission trips are designed for those who want to maximize impact in a short period of time and are perfect for students and professionals who are looking to take an alternative break . With everything organized for you, including airport pickup and 24/7 in-country support, you can hit the ground running as soon as you arrive at your destination. Check out our top short-term mission trips for 2024 & 2025:

Top short-term mission trips:

Volunteer in croatia.

Volunteer in Ghana

Volunteer in Mexico

Best summer mission trips

Summer is one of the most popular times of year to go on a mission trip, allowing you to immerse yourself in a new culture and interact with locals while soaking up the sunshine. With time off from work and school, it’s the perfect opportunity to see the world and make a difference alongside like-minded people.

Whether you have a desire to volunteer abroad with animals or want to find a medical volunteer program , check out these top summer mission trips for 2024 & 2025 .

Top summer mission trips:

Volunteer in puerto rico.

Volunteer in South Africa

Volunteer in Zanzibar

How to get started

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South Korea

Intentional community living, placement opportunities, requirements, program partner.

Presbyterian Church in the Republic of Korea (PROK)

Program Description

Rapid economic development in Korea has also created both striking wealth and immense poverty. Site placements help YAVs to consider the cost to human rights in relationship to recent global-economic practices and helps volunteers develop relationships with the minjung of Korea (downtrodden, marginalized, suffering, etc.). Minjung theologians remind us that God calls us to recognize how those less privileged than ourselves can be the face of Christ for us, a source of theology, and our salvation, rather than merely recipients of the charity. This theology was developed in the struggle against military dictatorship in South Korea during the heart of the democratization movement over several decades.

YAVs will explore the ripple effects of Japanese Occupation, Soviet and US influence, the Korean War, and the continued division and conflict between many competing systems. YAVs will meet Koreans following God’s call for reconciliation. Therefore, a major focus of the Korea YAV site will be “reverse-mission”, where instead of wealthy- mainly white – people going out to change the “poor and unintelligent”, US volunteers will learn from and be transformed by Koreans, especially learning how US Americans can examine ways conflict is perpetuated around the world, but especially in Korea.

See beautiful snapshots of Korea from Dia Griffiths 2016-17’s YAV year!

Language classes will be provided during the 3-4 week site orientation in order to facilitate relationship building with partners. No prior knowledge of Korean language is necessary, but Korea YAVs must be willing to engage in the language learning process before and during their YAV year. Language exchange programs and/or community language programs will be available throughout the year.

Site Coordinators

Hyeyoung Lee

LEARN MORE by selecting an option from the green bar above! Details on Intentional Community Living, YAV Blogs, Placement Opportunities & Requirements can be found.

Watch an intervew with korea yav alum, tish mason.

Different Drummers interview

Read about the YAVs in Korea:

“Joy and Han” “Comfort Zone? What Comfort Zone?”

Your living arrangement will vary depending on the placement site. Most of the placement sites will provide housing options within the community such as living in a community house with Koreans, living with other non-YAV international volunteers, living at a university dormitory, or a homestay with Korean families. Korea YAVs will explore intentional Christian community by examining all levels of relationships during their year (Korean partners, other YAVs, church communities, people with whom they live, etc.). There will be ongoing virtual group meetings for reflection on Korea faith life, history, culture, etc. There will also be three week-long in-person retreats during the year for deeper reflection and sharing.

Young Adult Volunteers (YAV) is a service and leadership development program through the World Mission division of the PC(USA). Young adults serve for one year in the U.S. or internationally, in areas such as fair trade or environmental issues, and have the opportunity to experience Christianity in a new culture. YAVs are between ages 19 and 30. Check out the YAV program blog here. 

Amanda Kirkscey Susannah Stubbs

Rachel Crilley Simon Donng Lauren Fiske Lydia “Dia” Griffiths Emily Lungmus

YAVs will be placed throughout four cities in Korea:

1. Hannam University – Daejeon Hannam University is located in Daejeon city. This is a school that was started by Southern Presbyterian missionaries of the Southern Presbyterian Church of the USA. There are several possibilities for work placements. YAVs will work with a migrant women’s shelter with women from different countries around Asia who are the survivors of domestic violence or sexual violence. YAVs will participate in the community life with the women and facilitate programs for children. YAVs will work with children struggling on the edge of poverty at neighborhood children’s centers. YAVs will facilitate group games, activities with art, English language, and more. YAVs will volunteer once a week at a soup kitchen that connects to the homeless and hungry populations around Daejeon train station. YAVs will participate in the church activities such as worship, Sunday school, and Bible studies, etc through Hannam University Church. YAVs will live in intentional community housing with other Christian students from Hannam University.

2. Jwapo Presbyterian Church (Farming community) – Jinan Jwapo Presbyterian Church belongs to the PROK denomination, our program partner in Korea. Jwapo Church is located in the rural area called Jinan in the Choonchung province. This church engages in rural farming ministry based on the principles of life and peace. More than 80% of the church members are composed of people who have recently moved from urban to rural areas. The church, working closely with local communities, is involved in the local farming, village development, and cooperative movements. To help with the initial settlement of the new comers, the church operated a guest house for younger farmers. The church also offers a variety of programs for agriculture based on the perspectives of life and peace. YAVs will help with farming during the weekdays and participate in the work of churches and local communities on youth cooperative farms. In the summer, there will be an opportunity to work as a staff for the youth peace camps for the community. YAVs will receive Korean language classes provided by your local community. YAVs will live in a church-run guesthouse with other young farmers.

3. Neutbom (“Late Spring”) MuniKhwan School – Gangjin The school is located in the southernmost part of South Korea called Ganglion. The school is an educational community located at the foot of Mundeok Village, Doam-myeon, Gangjin District. The school is named after Rev. Moon Ik-hwan (1917-1994), a PROK pastor who worked actively with the democratization and reunification movement. This school is providing an alternative curriculum for 7th-grade through the 12th-grade. There are three educational philosophies at this school: life and spirituality, autonomy and community, unification and peace. The “Late Spring” School has been carrying out educational activities focusing on liberal arts, community education, history education, and independent education according to the above three school philosophies. YAVs will participate in the program with the students according to the schedule of the school. Housing will be arranged at the guestroom of the school.

4. Joomin Presbyterian Church – Sungnam Joomin Presbyterian church belongs to the PROK denomination. The church is located in the Sungnam City near Seoul in an urban setting. This church was built to serve the poor working class people who used to live in this neighborhood. The church was socially active asking for the human rights of the factory workers and supported the democratization movement. Recently many immigrants and multicultural families have moved to this community. So, the church started to work with the immigrant population as they started the center for immigrants and multicultural families. YAVs will work at this center during the week days by participating in the programs with foreign workers, multicultural families and multicultural children, and serving as a supporting staff to provide meals for the elderly in the community. YAVs will also engage in the church worship services. YAVs will be able to take language courses offered at the immigrant center. The Church will provide a guest room for YAVs.

Age : 21 Education : Undergraduate college degree obtained before 8/1 (South Korean visa requirement)

• Must be willing to learn another language.
• Must be flexible.
• Must be an open eater.

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Pentecost Offering

By receiving the Pentecost Offering, you are uniting Presbyterians in support of young people sharing their faith, ideas and gifts with the Church and the world.

“Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.” — Luke 23:42

Crossing Borders’ Mission

The mission of Crossing Borders is to show the compassion of Christ to North Koreans and their children in China.

There are an estimated 200,000 North Korean refugees in hiding in China, persecuted by the Chinese authorities and without the means to protect themselves.

Since 2003, Crossing Borders has helped refugees and their families in China. In the United States, Crossing Borders spreads awareness regarding the plight of the North Korean people in hiding.

A part of Crossing Borders’ work is to share the Christian faith with the refugees and orphans in the organization’s care. While Crossing Borders does not require that recipients of support accept Christian beliefs, we believe that the gospel of Jesus is the only source of lasting strength and comfort for North Koreans.

Crossing Borders previously served North Korean refugees and orphans exclusively in China through two major programs: Refugee Care and Orphan Care. Today, Crossing Borders cares for refugees and their families in China and South Korea through a number of programs that are financially supported through our general fund.

The Crossing Borders Refugee Care program’s objective was to provide safety, medicine, financial support and training, and Christian counseling to the North Korean refugees in China. With a network extending throughout various regions the country, Crossing Borders was able to build communities and churches with North Korean refugees. North Korean refugees were given medical care and necessary pharmaceuticals while provided with counseling with on-field staff.

The Orphan Care program targeted North Korean refugees’ children who were left abandoned and vulnerable in China. Crossing Borders had established three central locations in China where these children can have their essential needs met. Through group homes, local staff and an orphanage established on the field, Crossing Borders supported children from elementary education through to the beginning of vocational training programs. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, short-term missions teams had been sent to the field each year to provide counseling and ministry support to children in the organization’s network.

Most of the orphaned children previously receiving care have grown and reached adult age and this program will be retired in the near future.

As of 2022, our work of caring for North Korean refugees continues but with a broader scope. Due to travel restrictions and increased scrutiny of outsiders enforced by China, care for refugees and their children is given primarily through our team on the ground. In 2020, we expanded our work to South Korea with the launch of Elim House , a safehouse for North Korean refugee women.

The Silent Partners: Crossing Borders Field Staff

Pastor M is a Korean-Chinese man who has been working with North Korean refugees and Crossing Borders since 2003. When the organization first began our work on the field, Pastor M was one of the most trustworthy and faithful volunteers who helped rescue and bring North Korean refugees to safety at the risk of his own life.

Because of the ongoing threats to his safety and his family’s requests, Pastor M stepped away from the work of sheltering North Korean refugees for several years. In this interim time, he worked in a church local to his hometown. However, believing that this was work that was given to him by God, Pastor M found that he could not stay away from the mission to help North Korean refugees and redoubled his investment by partnering with Crossing Borders on the field. His responsibilities now are to find North Korean refugees who need protection, to find resources on the field for Crossing Borders’ mission, and to continue to visit and provide for the safety of the North Korean refugees in Crossing Borders’ network.

Pastor M is not only experienced and familiar with the concerns of security and safety on the field, but he is a capable staff member who actively travels from location to location to find North Korean refugees in need. He is also a leader who has helped build communities of refugee women throughout China, empowering them to share the compassion of Christ and lead safe, stable lives.

After having children of their own, Mrs. Lee, a Korean-Chinese woman, and her husband felt a burden to help orphaned children throughout Northeast China. Both Mrs. Lee and her spouse began to consider opening an orphanage for Chinese, Korean-Chinese, and North Korean children without parents or families who could raise them. However, even with her willingness, Mrs. Lee had nowhere to turn to find help in starting this work.

While Mrs. Lee and her husband were not Christians, they knew that believers and churches were invested in sharing care and help with orphaned children. As Mrs. Lee gathered the resources and contacts to help her begin an orphanage, believers in China and organizations of Christians reached out to her to help her in her work. Her orphanage found a number of impoverished, vulnerable children with no families or struggling homes and brought them in to find safety. The children are cared for excellently, disciplined with love, and known as some of the brightest and hopeful young men and women in their schools.

When funding for the orphanage was struggling in 2013, Mrs. Lee and her husband met Crossing Borders. When Crossing Borders realized that a number of the children in Mrs. Lee’s orphanage were the children of North Korean refugees, the organization began working alongside Mrs. Lee. Mrs. Lee is not only knowledgeable and well-connected with the ins and outs of running and facilitating a orphanage but capable of caring for many half-North Korean children who struggle to establish their citizenship.

As a member of Crossing Borders’ staff, Mrs. Lee has become welcoming of Christian beliefs and sends all of the children in her care to church on each Sunday. Mrs. Lee is also responsible for watching over the children in one of the many areas where Crossing Borders is caring for North Korean refugees and orphans. Through thick and thin, she is one of many dedicated and hardworking caretakers on Crossing Borders’ overseas staff.

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Mission trip to Korea

The group was hosted by the Jesus People Church in Seoul. From there they traveled to Paju City near the North Korean border where they prayed for the reunification of the people of North and South Korea. The group also visited a memorial to the Korean War that includes a tribute to the Filipinos who fought beside the South Koreans in that war.

Back in Seoul, the group received street evangelism training. They reviewed and practiced sharing the gospel with each other, then worshiped together, singing and dancing for God’s victory over the streets of Seoul. Following lunch they paired up with young people from the host church and went to Korea National University and Cheongnyangni Train Station where they shared the gospel with everyone they met. Though they experienced some rejection, they made many new friends. They prayed for them and talked with them. Sharing the good news is a blessing whether it is received then or later.

Here are reflections from other participants on the trip:

“God exposed me to a different path, a path I never expected to take. The mission trip revived the fire in my heart. I saw how our Korean brothers and sisters are striving to do their part for the Great Commission that God has given to every Christian. I am inspired. I realized how much I can do by the power of prayer and faith.”

“In this short-term missions exposure, I saw how the Koreans love their country and also their love for their North Korean brothers, always remembering them in their prayers. South Koreans go to the northern border to pray for the unification of the nation. We too should pray, not only for the unification of the Koreas, but for all the nations to hear the good news of Jesus’ love for us.”

“In doing the mission of the Lord, our nationality does not divide us. Instead, it unites us to do his mission together.”

“I thank the Lord for letting me experience this trip, for it inspired me a lot. I am touched and very much amazed on how God works not only in the Philippines but also in other countries like Korea. For me, mission was limited to serving in our local church. Now, I thank God for making me realize that his love knows no bounds. Wherever he sends you, he will surely guide and protect you. All glory and praise to our God!”

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North Korea officials visit Iran in rare public trip

A North Korean delegation led by the cabinet minister for international trade is visiting Iran, the North's official media said on Wednesday in a rare public report of an exchange between the two countries believed to have secret military ties.

The minister for external economic relations, Yun Jong Ho, left Pyongyang on Tuesday by air leading a ministry delegation to visit Iran, the North's KCNA news agency said. It gave no other details.

North Korea and Iran have long been suspected of cooperating on ballistic missile programs, possibly exchanging technical expertise and components for their manufacture.

Iran has provided ballistic missiles to Russia for use in its war with Ukraine, Reuters reported in February.

North Korea is also suspected of supplying Russia with missiles and artillery, although both countries have denied the allegation.

Yun has previously worked on the country's ties with Syria, according to South Korean government database.

Yun has been active in the country's increasing exchanges with Russia, earlier this month leading a delegation to visit Moscow, according to KCNA.

Reuters is a news agency founded in 1851 and owned by the Thomson Reuters Corporation based in Toronto, Canada. One of the world's largest wire services, it provides financial news as well as international coverage in over 16 languages to more than 1000 newspapers and 750 broadcasters around the globe.

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April 30, 2024

North Korea Sends Rare Delegation to Iran, Fueling Concerns of Military Cooperation

N orth Korea sent its highest-level delegation to Iran in about five years as the U.S. raised concerns that arms sales from Pyongyang and Tehran have helped fuel conflicts in the Middle East and Russia’s war in Ukraine .

In a rare public report of the trip, the official Korean Central News Agency said in a one-sentence dispatch the North Korean delegation led by External Economic Relations Minister Yun Jong Ho left Pyongyang for Tehran on Tuesday. Yun had traveled to Russia earlier in April and has featured prominently in state media as a key player in trade between Pyongyang and Moscow.

While North Korea is unlikely to disclose further details about the trip, it highlights the military cooperation between the two countries and their defiance of the U.S. over the years. North Korea last sent a top member of its parliament to Iran in 2019.

Read More: The World Must Keep a Wary Eye on North Korea

“The Ukraine war has paved the way for cooperation between North Korea and Iran,” said Ban Kil Joo, a research professor at Korea University. “North Korea is sending an economic delegation now but it will be the beginning of a wider military cooperation to follow between the two.”

The U.S. has long accused Iran and North Korea of military cooperation in the missile and nuclear fields that ran from the 1980s and into the first decade of the 2000s. It had tapered off in recent years due to sanctions as well as the development of domestic weapons production in both countries.

Washington has charged the two with sanctions violations in sending arms to Russia for its war in Ukraine, During a visit to South Korea this month, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield said in return for the arms, Moscow is offering support that aids the weapons programs of both North Korea and Iran.

Read More: Why China, Russia, and North Korea Joining Forces in the Indo-Pacific Isn’t a Prelude to War

The State Department’s senior official for North Korea, Jung Pak, said in an interview this week that there is now a real risk the high-profile nature of North Korea’s relationship with Russia could make its armaments more appealing to other groups around the world.

South Korea’s spy agency issued a rare warning last week about cooperation between Iran and North Korea, saying there is a possibility Pyongyang could have helped Iran in its attack on Israel. South Korea previously said North Korean weapons have been used by Hamas, a U.S.-designated terrorist group, against Israel as the war in Gaza drags on.

While there have not been any specific allegations of recent arms transfers between North Korea and Iran, there are items that each could want from the other. Energy-strained North Korea could benefit from Iran’s oil and might be looking to acquire drones like those Tehran has sent to Russia, arms experts Lami Kim said, adding Iran’s nuclear program could receive a boost from North Korean technology.

“Further military cooperation between the two countries is very likely,” said Kim, a professor of security studies at the Daniel K. Inouye Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies. 

For its part — and despite a recent leak of hacked documents that indicates otherwise — Iran has repeatedly denied selling Russia drones for use in Ukraine but  said  it sent a “small number” before the February 2022 invasion.

Moscow and Pyongyang have denied the arms transfers accusations despite a multitude of satellite photos released by research groups and the U.S. government showing the flow of weapons from North Korea to Russia and then to munitions dumps near the border with Ukraine.

“It appears to be part of broader efforts to build a coalition against the U.S.,” said Koo Gi Yeon, a research professor at Seoul National University’s Asia Center, referring to the trip by the North Korean delegation.

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