Korean in France
Photo Source:
Tycho Atsma - Unsplash
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| People Name: | Korean |
| Country: | France |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 11,000 |
| World Population: | 82,147,500 |
| Primary Language: | Korean |
| Primary Religion: | Non-Religious |
| Christian Adherents: | 31.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 16.80 % |
| Scripture: | Complete Bible |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | Yes |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | Korean |
| Affinity Bloc: | East Asian Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
Koreans are believed to have ancestral links to the ancient Mongolians and Turks. They likely migrated to the Korean peninsula from as far away as the Siberian region. Distinct regional differences in culture and politics exist among South Koreans. The most important regional difference is between the Gyeongsang region in the southeast and the Jeolla region in the southwest. The two regions maintain a rivalry that reaches back to the fourth century AD. The rivalry originated from a struggle for control of the peninsula. Korean regional differences melt away among those who migrate to other countries like France. They learn to get along and cooperate, since they are all minorities in a culturally different land.
The first Koreans came to France as migrant workers in 1919. Most came in the early 2000s, but many have returned to South Korea. The few who remain are usually living in Paris.
What Are Their Lives Like?
Most Koreans come to France as students or to work temporarily. They have a low profile; many French people don’t know they are there. They are often mistaken for being Chinese.
What Are Their Beliefs?
Koreans are Christians or Buddhist, though many are secular. Many Koreans see religion as an inherited trait as much or more so than a faith. Also, many South Koreans practice elements of several belief systems including new religions and New Age spiritualities. Many modern, relativistic approaches to faith and hybrid religious belief systems exist. Christianity is the only faith that maintains distinct lines between those who belong to the belief system and those who do not.
In France, there are millions who are secular, and that includes many from the Korean population.
What Are Their Needs?
Koreans needs continued clear and consistent representation of biblical Christianity. Koreans in France need to see Christians living out Christ’s teachings about love, service, and faith.
Prayer Points
Pray that God will ignite passion for him and his word in among Koreans in France.
Pray they will evangelize France with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Praise God for the amazing missionary vision of the Korean Church! Pray Koreans in France will draw French Christians to join them as a vibrant mission force.