WCC letter of solidarity to NCCK

Rev. Jongseng Kim 
General Secretary 

Rev. Kim Minji 
Program Executive 
Department of International & Ecumenical Relations 

National Council of Churches in Seoul 
Republic of Korea 

 Geneva, 6 December 2024 

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." 

Romans 15:13 

Dear sisters and brothers, 

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who calls us to be peacemakers and seekers of justice. 

In this time of national crisis, the World Council of Churches (WCC) stands in steadfast solidarity with the people of South Korea and the faithful members of the NCCK. 

Over the last few days, we have followed with deep concern the unsettling events precipitated by President Yoon Suk Yeol's attempted declaration of martial law on December 3, a grave violation of constitutional values that undermines the democratic principles and human rights so courageously established through the struggles of the past. 

While the swift action of the National Assembly led to the lifting of this declaration, the damage inflicted on South Korea's hard-won democracy has created instability and deep uncertainty. 

As the NCCK rightly observes, these recent events have brought South Korea to a perilous moment, one that seeks to plunge society into "deep darkness" (Isaiah 60:2). Yet, we trust in the light of Christ that shines through the persistent efforts of those who advocate for justice, democracy, and peace. 

The WCC is committed to accompanying the churches and ecumenical partners in South Korea in this struggle for the restoration of the rule of law and the defense of democratic governance. We will continue to monitor these events and offer our prayers and advocacy for the protection of human rights, the pursuit of justice, and the lasting peace of the Korean Peninsula. 

May the God of peace grant strength and courage to the people of South Korea in these challenging times. 

In solidarity and prayer, 

Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay 
General Secretary 
World Council of Churches