Early Protestant Missionaries in Korea: The Spectacle Approach to Evangelism
Creatrip Team
a year ago
Early Protestant missionaries in Korea, like Underwood and Appenzeller, willingly became spectacles for curious Koreans as part of their evangelism efforts. Stationed in locations like Seoul's Jeongdong, they capitalized on their foreign appearance (blonde hair, blue eyes) to draw crowds, which allowed them to share Christian teachings. This tactic, known as 'spectacle evangelism,' was prevalent until missionaries established western-style houses in their communities. They used various means, including showing foreign objects like bicycles and hunting dogs, and even showcasing babies, to gather interest. Despite some missionaries facing challenges from this scrutiny, including stress-related symptoms, this approach was instrumental in the successful establishment of early Protestant churches in Korea.
