Map of Seojong-ni. (2005) (Map at Songbuk-dong House Office) (NOTE: The pink area is the 1960s areas of the city prior to its expansion. Buildings indicated on this map are the old locations of buildings overlaid onto current construction. The circular clusters of the original village area are shown, but currently it is a twisted network of small paved alleyways with a mix of old and new construction.)

Supposedly there were wells in Seojong-ni where the water tasted superior. (Source: Songtan History.) Water would have to be obtained from a central wells. In fact, the Seojong means "West Well." It is common-sense that Korean villages were built where there was an artesian well or flowing river nearby. Because the water table was so close to the surface, artesian wells were common in the area. Circular clusters of houses indicate that there were natural artesian springs in the area. These houses were most likely mudwattle construction typical of the farm houses in the area of the time. There is a circular cluster in the northern area of Seojong-ni above the Seojong Elementary School called "Seodungmul" (Seodunmul). (Source: Pyeongtaek Times: Seojong-dong) There is another circular grouping in the open market area near the "Y" of Seojong Market Road. The confluence of hills in the area with a water table near the surface made these types of artesian wells common in the area.

After concrete water mains were installed in the 1960s, these wells were capped. (NOTE: There is no water in the Seojong wells now as the water table has dropped as Jungang-dong has been siphoning the water off. (Source: Pyeongtaek Times: Seojong-dong))

In the 1960s, the mudwattle houses slowly disappeared from the area being replaced by the brick and stucco homes of the time. Most notable in Seojong-ni is the extremely low roof lines. In some areas, the road ways have been built up and the roofs lines are actually below the car window. Many of these structures used rough hewn wooden limbs as the roof supports. By the mid-1970s almost all of the mudwattle houses had disappeared from the area.

Old Village House behind Seojong Elementary School (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

Old Village House behind Seojong Elementary School (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

The open market was relatively small. In the 1950s, it probably was an open market in the literal sense with produce and wares on the ground. Because of the Korean War, in the 1950s, it did not have much to offer except condiments (peppers, kimchi, etc.) and other specialty crops along with butcher shops. At the same time, the other open market was in Osan-ni 8km away with very meager offerings. Later stalls would have been added and then shops for providing for the needs of the surrounding community. As the economy recovered, the shops in the market place would have revived, but it never became anything more than a community shopping area as the Jungang Market in Shinjang. The Songbuk Open Market opened in the 1960s in Songtan near the new population center outside Osan AB (K-55) -- for the farmers selling their goods, a time-table of certain days in operation were established so the farmers could carry their wares to the other open markets in the area.

It appears that the Seojong-ni community remained relatively small even after Osan AB appeared. Besides small contracts to local businesses and employment of local residents, the Seojong-ni area probably received very little in the way of tangible benefits from K-55.

The rest of the "old" town seemed to be laid out in a haphazard manner. The older dirt roads arched around the low hills to link houses with no particular design indicating a pre-1980s layout. The houses were built at the base of low-lying hills and the houses seemed to have been laid out in tiers -- a pattern for a farming village. The arching of the roads indicate the topography as the roads circled the hill and then dead ended at the tier end.

The farming villages were north of the Sejong Open Market. The "modern" town included the train station area and open market. It is apparent that in the 1950s, the area near the train station low one-story Korean style houses were the norm. An example of one of these houses is shown in the photo below. Traditional Korean-style houses prefer a central courtyard in the front -- no matter how small and the roof-line is traditionally higher. The traditional house had rooms around a central courtyard with the entrance was through the courtyard. On the other hand, Korean town-houses had a sliding door at the entrance which opened into a small area for removing ones shoes. The Japanese versions of these Korean-style houses used tatami mats for floor coverings with a central fire pit. If the area was large enough, a courtyard was in the rear of the house. The Korean versions used hondol heating. The poorer versions of these homes -- such as near the train stations or farmer's houses -- used transite (corrugated concrete-asbestos sheets) over packed clay sitting on the sheets of plywood in the ceiling.

1960s-style house (L) Rough-hewn roof supports (R) Single door front-entry with 1970s ceramic-tile exterior upgrade. Roofing material is transite (concrete/asbestos material) used in the 1960s on the poorer homes. Notice how low the eaves are. (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

The house above is a typical Korean town-house for the lower classes which featured very low-roof lines that appeared in the late 1950s and 1960s. This house belonged to a poor family as indicated by the transite (corrugated concrete/asbestos sheets) used as roofing material. Under the transite, the Koreans normally used packed clay mixed with straw as an insulator in the ceiling. Plywood was used for the ceiling. The construction was standard for the period with the roof and main members constructed of rough-hewn pieces. The eaves were very low -- approximately eight feet. The front of the house shown has been upgraded with ceramic tiles which were popular during the mid-1970s when buildings in the area upgraded their appearance. Along the side of the structure is an outside cooking area.

Other examples of this type of house (though not as well preserved) are still found behind the main store fronts of Seojong-ni on the MSR-1. Many of the structures are abandoned. For example, the one next to the warehouses above is overgrown with vines and reeks of pigeon droppings. Other examples seen near the train station (behind the storefront buildings) were in much poorer condition than this one -- and will be most likely demolished in the very near future.

In most of these older buildings with a courtyard, the outhouse (or "water closet" sometimes with "WC" written on them) was in the corner of the courtyard away from the sleeping quarters. In most poor urban areas, a central "outhouse" was built for a cluster of houses consisting of a large hole in the ground with boards over it where one squatted. These pits were periodically emptied by local farmers of the "night soil" for use as fertilizer. In larger city slums, smaller outhouses were built along the hillsides.

Modern Construction: After the rise of the Shinjang-dong (Jae-Yok-dong) area in importance, growth was limited in the Seojong area during the 1960s. Houses remained sparse between the Seojong-ni and the Shinjang-dong area (Jae Yok-dong). The area became Seojong-myeon. Seojong-myeon was made up of the villages of (1) Jeomcheon (2) Jijang (3) Pokchang (4) Shinchang (5) Saguri; and (5) Wanjokpong (Jokbong-ni).

However, with the start of the Miracle of the Han River in the 1970s, more small manufacturing shops moved into the area. Along the MSR-1, three-four story concrete office buildings were erected. The growth in the Seojong-ni area spread outwards towards the Shinjang-dong area and into the Jangang-dong area. However, the growth was very modest.

By the 1980s, the growth had reached the boundaries of the Shinjang area and more small-to-mid-sized factories moved into the area because of the lack of space in Seoul as well as the growth in Seoul south of the Youngdongpo area which was connected by the MSR-1. Three story apartment complexes were erected in the area. The streets in this area of expansion followed a grid pattern indicating post-1980s construction, but the streets were very narrow -- mainly because there were few cars in those days.

In 1981 Songtan-eup (town) changed to Songtan-shi (city) and Seojong-myeon was incorporated into Songtan. It became Seojong-dong and was divided into Seojong 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9. It was during this time that the Songtan "dream" of melding Songtan and Seojong-ni into one city -- Songtan City -- was born. The Seojong Tourism Road was the central area between Seojong-ni and Songtan.

The most of the store fronts throughout Seojong-ni are of recent construction (1970s or later). Most of the major roads in Seojong-ni are not the original roads, except for the Seojong Market Road (MSR-1), Shinjang Road (MSR-1 Bypass Road) and Hyomyung School Road. Likewise, most of the construction in Seojong-ni is of recent manufacture.

We can find no evidence of any remaining Japanese influence in Seojong-ni. Some of the older buildings near the open market could possibly be from the Japanese era, but there is nothing that distinctively identifies them as Japanese. For example, Japanese buildings were made from red fire bricks giving them a distinctive look. Other Japanese structures followed the art-deco pattern of the 1930s. Seojong-ni being a minor farming community railhead most likely did not have any of these type structures. In addition, the anti-Japanese frenzy of the 1990s saw the destruction of most Japanese buildings and structures so the examples of Japanese architecture in Korea are becoming rare.

After the 1980s when the first low-rise apartments (three story) were built, the entire Seojong area seems to have been rebuilt with streets laid out on a grid pattern. The oldest houses that remain in the area are of 1960s type construction instead of the traditional Korean farm houses. Near the train station there were low one-story Korean town-style houses in the area, but not tightly packed. The store fronts were built in front of these structures or the structures were leveled. These older houses are relics and now being deserted.

The apartment construction was done in stages. The first stage was the low-rise apartments of the 1980s. As one follows the MSR-1 Bypass Road (Shinseon Road) past the Route 340 turn-off, the Jugong apartment complexes appear on the left. These low apartment structures were the norm for the first apartment constructions in the area and were primarily for the lower income families. Along with this the Songil Elementary School was constructed nearby.

The second stage was the high-rise apartments of the 1990s. The MSR-1 Bypass Road (Shinseon Road) continues until it comes to an intersection. To the left are the new Hyundae high-rise apartments appear. If one goes straight ahead, the Shinseon Road (MSR-1 Bypass) joins the Sejong Market Road (MSR-1) and then becomes the Hyomyung School Road. If you turn right, you will go down to the road to the Seojong-ni Train Station.

Seojong-ni Roads The northern limit of the town was Route 340 leading to Anjung. This road off the MSR-1 Bypass Road (Shinjang Road) leads to the overpass of the Kyongbu Railroad lines. The western limit was the Kyongbu Railway line and the eastern limit was the MSR-1 Bypass Road (Shinjang Road). The southern limit was near the junction of the original MSR-1 (Seojong Market Road) and the MSR-1 Bypass Road (Shinjang Road). (SITE NOTE: As of 2006, we are still attempting to research the construction date of the MSR-1 Bypass Road. However, longtime Korean residents state that it was not built until the 1980s or 1990s. The exact date is unknown and in research.)

The present Route 340 goes over the railroad tracks (overpass) just before Seojong-ni Station. This is the northern limit of the old Seojong-ni Village. This road continues on and there is an intersection at Dongchang where going right takes you parallel with Osan Air Base and leads to the main gate area of Osan AB. If you go straight on the road, you will run into the "Alpha Site" of Osan AB for munitions storage. If you continue straight, it crosses the normally-dry river bed (Chinwi-chon River). (NOTE: If you compare the 1948 map with the present day maps of the Chinwi-cheon River, one can see the river is much smaller in its "spread" and it obviously has been "contained" by flood control projects.) The road then continues on to Kochan where it intersects with Route 39. It goes south to Anjung and north to Pyeongni.

The original MSR-1 bypassed the Seojong Train Station area, instead passing through the open market area. This is now a one-way street called the Seojong Market Road. The old open market place exists a block away from the station. Businesses sprang up along MSR-1 on the Seojong Market Road as it passed through Seojong-ni. There appears to be an older road that cut through the market place and went to the Seojong-ni Train Station.


Road leading to Songtan. (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) (NOTE: This road appears to have been built in the 1980s judging from the construction materials in the buildings fronting the road. The original MSR-1 diverted through the open market as Seojong Market Road.)

The road in front of the Seojong-ni Train Station was NOT built as part of the original path of the MSR-1. In the Korean War, the MSR-1 followed the railroad tracks and at the area where there presently is a "Y" for one-way traffic to the Pyeongtaek Station, the MSR-1 went left as Seojong Market Road and continued straight until it exited Seojong when it rejoined up with the MSR-1 Bypass Road to the south of Seojong-ni. (NOTE: At this point we theorize that the road construction in front of the Seojong-ni Station was in the 1980s because of the grid pattern of the streets around the Train Station and also the road had no continuation after the Station.)

CHURCHES The church activities for the area during the Japanese colonial period was centered in the Seojong area. The Seojong Catholic Church (St. Theresa's Church) was first founded in 1937 near the Seojong-ni Train Station. It is worthwhile to mention that Catholicism had taken root in the Jinwi-Pyeongtaek area in the 1780s so there was a strong following present in the area. (NOTE: See Korean History: 1780s.) The Protestant faiths were also represented in the area -- primarily the Presbyterian denomination. There is evidence that the Chundo-kyo meaning "Eastern Learning Religion" had supporters in the area, but this never attained any significant following. (NOTE: See 2005: Chundo-kyo (Eastern Learning) Church to be Torn Down.)

Seojong-ni Catholic Church (St. Theresa's) (1932) The church activities for the area during the Japanese colonial period was centered in the Seojong-ni area. The Seojong Catholic Church (St. Theresa's Church) was first founded in 1937 near the Seojong-ni Train Station. Catholicism had taken root in the Jinwi-Pyeongtaek area in the 1780s so there was a strong following present in the area.

Background of Catholicism in Pyeongtaek area One of first Koreans baptized was Yi Sung-hyun (Peturo - Peter). At that time, Catholicism entered Korea from China and the closest seminary was in Macao. In 1789, Yi Sung-hyun came to the Pyeongtaek Hyeungam area and worked to convert people. He later went to Pyeongtaek-gun, Paengsong-baechuri. He is credited with the start of the Roman Catholic faith in the Pyeongtaek area. (Source: Seojong-ni History.)

Yi Sung Hyun, among the first Catholic converts in 1783 (Pyeongtaek City) (Source: Pyeongtaek History (CD), Pyeongtaek Si Sa)

Yi Sung Hyun in Catholic Cemetery in Pyeongtaek (Pyeongtaek City) (Source: Pyeongtaek History (CD), Pyeongtaek Si Sa)

Catholic Meetings 1791. (Pyeongtaek City) (Source: Pyeongtaek History (CD), Pyeongtaek Si Sa)

But the Roman Catholic faith would fall on hard times of religious persecution in the 1800s. During the 19th century both European and western traders began looking to the Orient as fertile grounds for commerce. In 1844 the U.S. Congress considered, then tabled, a motion to open trade with Corea. Over the following 20 years however, the Orient was subjected to increased, though unwanted, interest from foreign shipping and trading concerns. On March 31, 1854, the United States and Japan signed the Treaty of Kanagawa, opening Japanese ports to American ships. Six years later the French and British invaded China, seizing the capitol at Peking. While the Chinese fought to hold their capitol, Russia moved in from the east to easily grab 350,000 square miles of Chinese lands in the Ussuri territory. On the Corean peninsula the Choson people watched the western incursion into the Orient with fear and concern.

Persecution of Catholics in Korea The year 1864 brought a change of leadership to Corea when Ch'olechong, the 25th king of the Choson Dynasty, died without leaving a male heir. In accordance with her rights under custom and law the queen mother took possession of the king's seal, the symbol of enthronement. After consulting with her advisors and statesmen she adopted Kojong, the second son of Yi Ha-ung. Kojong was only thirteen years old when he ascended to the throne, and in his place his father, Yi Ha-ung, ruled the Choson Kingdom.

Adopting the title Taewongun, literally interpreted "Prince of the Great Court", Yi Ha-ung became one of the strongest leaders of the Choson Dynasty during a critical period of trial, crisis, and increased interest from abroad. In the name of his son King Kojong, the Taewongun initiated his best efforts to bring harmony to the kingdom, while resisting any influences from the outside world. He quickly recognized that treaties with western nations would most probably be one sided, as had been the treaties signed with Japan and China. These would benefit no one but the westerners. (The term "Westerner" not only applied to nations of the western hemisphere, but also those of Europe which was also west of Corea.)

Taewongun also firmly believed that the foreign missionaries with their Christian teachings were diluting the kingdom with unwanted ideas. Under King Ch'olechong persecution of Christians in Corea had eased for the first time in the kingdom's history. The Taewongun's efforts to return his country to the traditions of Confucianism ultimately led to the death of nine of the twelve French Catholic priests in Korea, and nearly 10,000 of their native converts. Accounts of the executions relate the public spectacle of the beheading of the priests.

The year that Westerners called "1866" was known as "Byung-in" in Corea, a country that had now become known as "The Hermit Kingdom" because of its strong policies of isolationism. In Byung-in a series of events set in motion the unwanted intrusion of foreign nations on Corean soil. These would eventually topple one of the world's longest lasting ruling dynasties. In Byung-in the French invaded Corea in what became known as the Byunginyangyo...."Western disturbance" yangyo in the year byung in. (Many historical references translate the Korean characters for that year with the Romanized letter "P", referring to the year as pyong and the French invasion as Pyonginyangyo.)
,br> During the Taewongun's February 1866 crackdown on the spread of Catholicism in his kingdom, three priests managed to escape to China including Father Felix-Clair Ridel. Upon learning of the fate of the Catholics in Corea, French consul Gabriel Deveria boarded the gunboat of Rear Admiral Gustav Roze, commander of the French empire's Far Eastern Squadron. Roze immediately cancelled plans to sail for Nagasaki, while Ridel forwarded the sad news on to the French diplomat in China, Henri de Bellonet. On July 13 Bellonet sent a dispatch to Admiral Roze informing him: "In receiving the news of the general massacre of Christians and missionaries in Corea, you have no doubt thought like myself that the slightest delay in the punishment of this bloody outrage could result in serious endangerment to the 500 (other) missionaries preaching in China." (Source: Home of Heroes: Korea 1871)

Martyrs in Korea There were terrible purges along the way. There are 103 martyrs in this group, priests, missionaries and lay people who died in the early days of the Church in Korea. Most were murdered during waves of persecutions in 1839, 1846 and 1867. One of these martyrs in 1846 was St. Teresa Kim Im-i. (Source: Catholic Forum.)

St. Teresa Kim Im-i (1811-1846) As a child, Teresa Kim Im-i, born into a Catholic family of Seoul, Korea, loved to read the lives of the saints and longed to imitate them. At the age of seventeen, she resolved to dedicate her virginity and the rest of her life to God, devoting herself to acts of piety and charity. Seventeen years later, she became a maid in the household of Korea's first native priest, (Saint) Andrew Kim Tae-gon. Aware of the ongoing danger of persecution in her country, Teresa told her sister, "If the Father (Father Kim) is imprisoned, I wish to follow his example, even if I have to give myself up voluntarily, so do not expect to keep me long in this world." In June of 1846, Father Kim was arrested by the pagan authorities. A month later, Teresa was arrested with three other women at the home of the Catholic layman, (Saint) Charles Hyon Song-mun. In prison, the four women refused to deny their faith, despite repeated tortures. Teresa encouraged the others to resign themselves to the will of God. On September 20, 1846, four days after the martyrdom of Father Kim, Teresa was beaten to death, one of seven executed that day. Catholic.org

The Seojong-ni Catholic Church History In 1914, Jinwi-gun became Songtan-myeon, Pyeongtaek-gun. In 1938, Seojong-ni became part of Pyeongtaek-gun. At first there was no church in the area and Fr. Chae Pyong-nam (Benedicto) had responsibility for the entire area covering Pyeongtaek-shi, Shinjang-1 dong, Deogok-dong, Songbuk-dong, Jisan-dong, Jinwi-myeon, and Seotan-myeon. There were a total of 3,430 catholics in the area (male: 1,465 and female: 1,965) from 1,376 Catholic households.

Father Molimard (Joseph) (b.1897) was the first priest of the Seojeong-ni church. Fr. Molimard was a Frenchman who came to Korea in 1925, He spoke Korean fluently. For a time, he worked in Hwanghae-do, Anak, Naehwa-dong. In 1926, he went to Suwon until 1928 when he moved to a build a church in Pyeongtaek. At the beginning of 1930, only one or two people were converted to Roman Catholicism in the Pyeongtaek area. Thus after he built the first Pyeongtaek Church, he turned to converting more residents to Catholicism.

In Seojong-ni in 1932, there were only one or two Catholic households, but by 1934, 150 people had been converted to Catholicism. After the 150 people were converted, Fr. Molimard built the first Seojong-ni Catholic church. He received money from believers' donations and bought 400 pyeong of land on a hill near the Seojong-ni train station. In May 1934, Fr. Molimard built the temporary mudwattle and thatch-roofed rectory in the traditional Korean style and he also built a small 37 pyeong church. In 1934, the head of the Jesuit teaching order, Fr. Larribeau, in Seoul visited every weekend held a mass in Seojong-ni for the believers until 1938. Fr. Molimard had the responsibility for ministering to the entire area covering Shinjang-1 dong, Deogok-dong, Songbuk-dong, Jisan-dong, Jinwi-myeon, Osan-eup and Seotan-myeon. After Fr. Molimard converted 600 people, the Seojong-ni church became a true parish.


First Seojong-ni Catholic Church (1934) (Seojong-ni Catholic Church History)

In May 1934, they built a more substantial 65 pyeong rectory, Work was started on building a 100 pyeong church on 29 Sep 1934. The rectory stood at the gate of the church at the base of the small hill and the church was located at the top of the hill.

In Oct 1938, Fr. Molimard bought 3000 pyeong of ground and built a permanent 100 pyeong red brick church and 55 pyeong rectory. The original church is now the Church kindergarten.


Seojong-ni Catholic Church and Rectory (1952) (Seojong-ni Catholic Church History)


Seojong-ni Catholic Church and Rectory (1957) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

After Fr. Molimard was retired in Aug 1948, Fr. Cleary (Patricio) was assigned to the church as the second parish priest. Fr. Cleary suffered through the ravages of the Korean War as the North Koreans swept through the area in 1950. The rectory was destroyed because of the War and no records remained of the church history. Only the church survived.

By 1952, the Korean War had settled into a stalemate along the DMZ. In Jul 1952, Fr. Ryu Su-cheol (Dominicu) (1918-1977) was the third priest of the church and a new rectory was built. He was interested in educating the people and in 1952 started teaching children sitting on the floor of the rectory.


Father Ryu Su-cheol (Dominicu) (1952) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


Fr, Dominicu at Communion (1952) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


Father Dominicu teaching in Rectory (1952) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

From the History of the 18th FBW (1 Jan 54 - 30 Jun 54), the initial funding of $6,000 and donations of time and effort for the construction of the furniture was solely due to the Catholic personnel on K-55 base. The project was initiated by Wing Chaplain Major George M. Rinkowski in cooperation with Fr. Ryu Su-cheol (Dominicu). With the funds, a 75 pyeong structure was built. Maj. Rinkowski rotated to the states in Apr 1954. (Source: History of the 18th Fighter Bomber Wing 1 Jan 1954 to 30 Jun 1954, Office of the WIng Chaplain.) The first St. Theresa's Middle School (Hyomyung Citizens' Highschool) was founded on 21 May 1953 and located where the church parking lot is today. Fr. Ryu Su-cheol became the first principal of the Hyomyung Middle School on 21 May 1953.


St. Theresa's Middle School (1953) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


St. Theresa's Middle School (1957) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

The HQ FEAF, 5th Air Force news release on 22 Jan 1954 read in part: "The airmen of the 18th Fighter Bomber Wing provided materials and finances for a new eight-room country school house near Osan for 280 Korean grammar school children. While Korean builders speeded the construction of the new building, men of the 18th Wing utilized their off-duty time in the base hobby shop making 90 double desks and 140 double seats needed for the students."

The first teachers in 1953 were Yi Seok-chong, Pak Dae-yong, Pak Gi-ho, An Chong-ho, and Pak Dae-seop. (Source: Hyomyung 50th Nyeon Sa (50th Anniversary Edition)) On 7 Jan 1954, Bishop Paul M. Rho (Rho Ki-nam) , Bishop of Seoul, dedicated the building. After that 12 Jul 1954, the Korean government approved the founding of the Hyomyeong Middle School. The school house at the church was expanded to a 285 pyeong 8-room wooden structure with the aid of additional funds from the K-55 Catholic airmen.

On 2 Apr 1955, there was a large ceremony when the building was started on the new school grounds south of the church. The Hyomyeong high school was established on 21 May 1956 as a trade high school. Then it became a general high school teaching a synthesis of subjects. Fr. Ryu Su-cheol (Dominicu), in addition to his work as the parish priest, was also the first principal and chaplain of the Hyomyung Middle School from 21 May 1953 to 31 Aug 1955.

In 1957 the new construction of the Hyomyung Middle & High School was started. The K-55 Airfield Installation Operations (AIO) catepillars and bulldozers were used in leveling the land for the construction. When the new two story concrete structure was completed in 1958, a dedication ceremony led by Fr. Ryu Su-cheol and attended by church officials and K-55 dignitaries. The Hyomyung Middle School principal was Kim Woo-Ryong who served from 2 Jun 1957 to 15 Apr 1969. (See Hyomyung Middle School for details on the school.)

In Jul 1954, Fr. Ryu Su-cheol (Dominicu) built a 15-pyeong religious meeting hall at Hwaewha-ri. In Mar 1956 he bought 5500 pyeong of land to make a Catholic cemetary in Jangdang-dong. At the same time in 1956, he built a religious meeting hall at Awyan-ri.

Fr. Ryu Su-cheol (Dominicu) of the Seojong-ni Catholic Church wanted to make a church in Songtan so on 14 Aug 1954 he bought 845 pyeong at 338-3 punji (address), Shinjang-ri, Songtan-myeon. The land was just above the rail spur to K-55 that ran along the base of Hobak hill. This is now the Songtan Catholic Church. (SITE NOTE: The church was founded until 22 Aug 1965 at 338-8 punji (address), Seojong-dong, pon-dang, Pyeongtaek-shi. The original church is what is now the office and rectory areas. The building has been modified to house the office and rectory of the church. SEE Songtan Catholic Church (Saint Andrew's Church).)

On 26 Feb 1957, the Hyomyuing High School was created with three classes. On this date, the first principal Kim Kyang-ha took control acting both as a teacher and principal. On 10 Feb 1960, Hyomyung High School year graduated its first class of 24 boys and 9 girls.

In Jan 1961, Fr. Kang Hwan-yoo (Johan) became the fourth parish priest. Fr. Yun Byeong-hi (Baoro) took over in Jul 1961 as the fifth priest. On 7 Aug 1961, Legion of Mary (Legio Mariae) was started. (SITE NOTE: The Legion of Mary is the largest apostolic organization of lay people in the Catholic Church, with well over 3 million active members in almost every country of the world in 2006. It has been approved by the last 6 Popes, and was endorsed by the Second Vatican Council. The main purpose of the Legion of Mary is to give glory to God through the sanctification of its members. Members become instruments of the Holy Spirit through a balanced program of prayer and service. Works include door-to-door evangelization, parishioner visitation, prison ministry, visitation of the sick or aged, crowd contact, religious education, visiting the newly baptized, Pilgrim Virgin Statue rotations, and meeting the other spiritual needs of the parish community. Legionaries are under the guidance of a spiritual director named by the pastor. The Legion is, in essence, an extension of the heart and hands of the pastor. (Source: Legion of Mary.)

On 18 Dec 1962, Hyomyung High School became "Hyomyung Shiop High School" (trade school) with three classes. On 15 Oct 1963, a sports room was constructed for judo.

On 3 Jan 1963, Fr. Kim Deok-jae [Chirill-ro) took over as the sixth parish priest -- as well as chaplain of the Hyomyung Middle & High School. Kyeong Hak-su (Johan) became the chairperson for the church. In Oct 1963, Seojong-ni church and other Kyonggi-do churches were previously in the Seoul diocese, but were moved to the Suwon diocese.

In Oct 1964, Hyomyung Middle School building was 22 pyeong. They bought an additional 3000 pyeong of ground at the Hyomyung High School location.

In Jul 1964. the Osan-eup (town) area had 5 religious meeting buildings and 1242 believers, so it was decided that a new church in Osan was justified and a new parish was set up by splitting them off from the Seojong-ni parish. On 22 Aug 1965 the Songtan Catholic Church (St. Andrews) was founded and it too was split off from the Seojong-ni parish. As a result, the Seojong-ni Catholic Church parish shrunk in size until it only represented the believers in the Seojong-ni area.

On 7 Oct 1968, Fr. Ryu Jin-son (Leo) became the seventh parish priest of the church -- as well as chaplain of the Hyomyung Middle & High School. In Sep 1969, he bought 91 pyeong for the espansion of the church grounds. In 1969, "Forever Help" (Yongwan Han Doeum) group of sisters came to assist in the teaching at Hyomyung Middle and High School teachers. The sisters were housed in the now vacant building used for the old Hyomyung Middle School.

In Jul 1970, Fr. Jang Gun-gu (Christomo) became eighth parish priest. He asked the "Sangi" sisters group to come to the school. In Jun 1974, sisters arrived at the church to assist in the teaching duties for the Hyomyung Middle and High School. The sisters lived together in the old delapidated school house on the church school grounds that was first built in 1953. The Kim Jong-jun (Johan) took over as the manager for the church affairs.

On 28 Jul 1972, Fr. Kang Ju-hwi (Bangracio) became the ninth parish priest. In 1972, the Jwakyo-ri religious meeting hall was built. On 12 Jul 1972, there were 25 households with 254 people in the parish. A meeting hall was constructed through the 2 million won in donations from Shindang-dong parish, Wangship-ri parish, Sangdo-dong parish and Seojong-ni parish. In addition, people labored without pay to construct the hall.

On 24 May 1975, Fr. Jo Hwan-gyu became the tenth parish priest.

Anseong Middle & High School's Fr. Han Jong-hoon (Stephano) worked at the church on the weekends and then on 23 Mar 1977 became the eleventh parish priest of the church. He commissioned the statue of the Immaculate Mother Mary -- that still remains in front of the church -- as well as the garden area of the church.

On 18 Jun 1981, Fr. Choi Kyong-hwan (Matea) became the twelfth parish priest. He was also chaplain for the Hyomyung Middle & High School. In Dec 1981, he built the new housing for the sisters and remodeled the rectory.

On 12 Mar 1982, Fr. Bae Yun-hyun (Dominico) became thirteenth parish priest. In Jun 1982, Moon Gok-ri meeting hall which 25 houses with 113 people. Tanhyun-ri meeting hall turned into the Songsa Church. In Aug 1984, they built the Sunday School building. At that time there were 2019 people in the congregation and 8 meeting halls in the area.

On 21 Dec 1984, Fr. Kim Chun-ho became the fourteenth parish priest. However, eight months later he went to the Sakang University. On 20 Aug 1985, Fr. Han Bong-ju (Keullaeto) became the fifteenth parish priest. Jagyo-ri meeting hall with 68 believers moved under the Pyeongtaek parish.

On 24 Feb 1988, Fr. Im An-gi (Anduraea) became the sixteenth parish priest. Unfortunately, the sisters of "Forever Help" left because there was a disagreement over the operations of Hyomyung Middle & High School. On 1 Sep 1990, the church made a new branch hospital for the Me Ri-mae sisters group who replaced the "Forever Help" sisters.

On 17 Jun 1989, a new building expansion was dedicated. At the first steeple in built in 1934, they held the 60th anniversary celebration of the first church in Pyeongtaek in 1928 by Fr. Molimard -- the first priest of the Seojong-ni Catholic Church. Jesuit Fr. Kim Nam-su (Angelo) took part in the celebration. (SITE NOTE: On 28 Apr 1983, Fr. Kim Nam-su (Angelo) built a 380 pyeong church at Songsau, Pondang for the 1,280 believers in the area.)

In Sep 1989, work was started for the concrete construction of a new 1000 pyeong church building. Basement was for the building's electrical and support equipment and mortuary rooms. There were three floors containing office and meeting rooms, eating room, praying room for Mary, baby room, choir room. They also remodeled old church building for use as a Sunday School -- and later would become the Theresa kindergarten.

Catholic sisters housing remodeled. On the exterior of the church, a cross was added so it could be seen from the road. Saint Theresa statue made in US added to the church and a new church door was added. The grounds were landscaped. The total cost of the new church was 3 billion won ($3 million). All church people had bazaars and sales to earn money to repay the loans. Other church donated money to the Seojong-ni church but there still was a large loan to repay.

On 16 Jan 1991 the church started an prison outreach program (Gurea).

On 15 Jan 1992 Jan 15 Lee Hwo-jin (Matea) became a father. On 2 Feb 1993 Fr. Woo Chong-min (Dominico) constructed a new church. In Songtan City, there were only three Catholic churches at the time in Seojong-dong, Songsau and Songtan. In 1992 planning started to erect a home (Joseph House) for senior citizens without a family to care for them. On 27 Sep 1992, the business manager had a car accident and one person died.

On 3 Feb 1993, Kim Hak-moo (Segayohan) became the seventeenth parish priest. During 1993, the church continued to its efforts to help the poor. In Mar 1993 two Gurea prison outreach programs served two prisons with worship meetings and youth group service interactions. 5 Oct 1993 was the date set for the celebration of the founding of the church. In 1993, two radio broadcasts were done from the Pyeonghwa Studio.

In 1993, Montesori teaching methods started in the St. Theresa Kindergarten. The old teaching rooms were demolished and 100 pyeong of space rebuilt.

(Source: Seojong-ni Catholic Church History (1938-1993) and Daily History (-2006).)

Seojong Catholic Church (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

Seojong Catholic Church Dayschool (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

Seojong Catholic Church Parking Lot (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) (NOTE: Old location of St. Theresa's Middle School. (1953).)

Seojong Catholic Church Old Church on hill (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

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SCHOOLS In the Chosun Dynasty period, education in Korea was conducted on the Confucian system. The pupils first entered the sohtang, or private common school found in every town and village, where they were mainly taught to read and write Chinese ideographs and the Chinese classics. For a more advanced course, they might go to a higher school, or han-gyo, in every district; and finally to the Imperial Academy in Seoul. As in China, the purpose of education was the development of the examination system for civil servants, through which learned men attained political power and social prestige. The basis of all learning was the great compendium of neo-Confucianism, the Hsing li Ta-chu'an. The Korean language remained the language of the people, but the scholar-governing class was contemptuous of it. To this day education in South Korea is to some extent influenced by the persistence of the Confucian ethos. Its system of ethical rules requireing a fixed pattern of life discouraged change, innovation, or progress; individuality and originality tended to be subordinated to official doctrines; the whole emphasis was on literary pursuits and practical matters. Above all, manual labor was despised. (Source: The Republic of Korea, W.E. Reeve, 1963, p86) As can be seen the society was still structured with the Yangban or scholarly elite class at the top, followed by the craftsmen, tradesmen, and farmers in the middle and the despised jailers, butchers, boatmen, coolie laborer, etc. at the bottom.

At the end of the 19th century, the Choson Dynasty opened its closed doors to the outside world, and a massive influx of western cultures followed. The people of the Choson Dynasty were exposed to a new world of views and awakened to the defects of the traditional educational system with heightening concern for an educational system which would be appropriate for the changing society. (Source: Ministry of Education: Advent of Modern Education (1880 ~ 1945).)

While enlightenment movements were in progress, King Kojong declared the Royal Decree in 1895, authorizing the establishment of other state-run modern schools such as primary schools, normal schools and vocational schools. He put emphasis on the importance of education for the training of competent persons and the revival of the nation. In the private education sector, the Christian missionary organizations erected schools in Seoul and local areas and patriotic-minded leaders who fought against the Japanese invasion also erected many schools to enlighten people and make them love their own country. This period is called the dawn of modern education in Korea. (Source: ibid)

The Japanese began revising the old system in 1895, but naturally took a far tighter hold with the establishment of the protectorate in 1906, when they claimed to establish education in Korea on modern lines, in conformity with the famous Imperial Rescript of Education of 1890. The most contentious measure they took, believed by the Koreans to be a discriminatory measure, was to establish parallel Japanese and Korean schools. There were thus Korean elementary and higher shools and Japanese primary, middle, and higher schools. The Japanese explanation was that the difference in language and customs necessitated the establishment of separate schools; they maintained that syllabuses and qualifications were identical, although there were separate textbooks for Koreans emphasizing their language, history, and geography. But history at least was rewritten to teach that Korea was part of Japan, and the Japanese teachers were better paid. Elementary education was not compulsory in Korea -- as it was in Japan -- but tuition and textbooks were free. Nevertheless it proved difficult at first to get Koreans to enrol in the schools because the time-honored study of Chinese calligraphy and classics was relegated to the background and the study of Japanese, arithmetic, and geography took its place. After 1921 9-12 hours a week had to be devoted to Japanese, fair use of which had to be made also in teaching other subjects, while it was the sole medium of instruction in the higher schools. As the Japanese themselves admitted, the Koreans believed that Japanese "was being forced on their children in order to supplant their own language and thus destroy their national charactyeristics." From 1937 the teaching of the Korean language was prohibited. (Sourtce: The Republic of Korea, W.E. Reeve, 1963 pp86-87) (NOTE: In 1899, the JInwi Elementary School was opened as the first "modern" elementary school in the area. After the 1919 Independence Uprising (March 1st), the Japanese tightened its control of the educational systems to force the assimilation of Korea as a part of Japan.)

The independent development of Korean modern education was interrupted by the annexation of Korea by Japan in 1910. During the following 35 years under colonial rule, public schools were erected but the aim of education was to convert Koreans into loyal citizens of Japan. This intent was manifested in the Educational Decree promulgated shortly after the annexation. In the 1930s and 1940s, Koreans were forbidden to use the Korean language. Instead, they were forced to use the Japanese language under the Japanese plan to obliterate the cultural identity of Koreans. Korean history was excluded from the curriculum. Koreans were forced to learn only Japanese history.

Moreover, Koreans were obliged to change their names into Japanese names. In order to maintain their colonial rule, Japanese colonialists demanded loyalty and submission from the Korean people. They limited the opportunities for education because they thought it very dangerous to spread education among the Koreans. Thus, the standard of education was low on the whole. (Source, ibid)

Seojong Elementary School The school was located next to the original "town" which consisted of circular clusters of houses which would indicate wells at the center of the cluster. (NOTE: The name of Seojong means "West Well.") On the other side of the school was the Sejong-ni Open Market. Though modest in size, it was part of the original village area.

Though the Jinwi Elementary School had its roots starting in 1899, the Seojong Elementary School is considered the oldest "modern" school in the Songtan area tracing its roots to 1922. However, there were private "church" schools in the area as well. One of these was the Seojong Catholic School that was founded in Seojong-ni in 1937 and started a small school in the rectory of the church. This later would evolve into the St. Theresa's Middle School in 1953 and later would become Hyomyung Middle School and High School. (NOTE: The Pyeongtaek history, Pyeongtaek Si Sa, has a reference to the school but has an error that the Seojong Elementary school was renamed Songtan Elementary in 1996 -- a typo mistake referring to the Songtan Elementary School in Songtan-dong.)

Seojong-ni Potong Hakkyo (Public Primary School). (1922) (Seojong Elementary Wall Mural (2005))

Graduating Class (1922) (Seojong Elementary Wall Mural (2005))

After 1921 9-12 hours a week had to be devoted to Japanese, fair use of which had to be made also in teaching other subjects, while it was the sole medium of instruction in the higher schools. In 3 Jun 1922, the Seojongni Potong Hakkyo (Seojong-ni Public Primary School) was opened during the Japanese colonial period. On 16 Oct 1922, the school started into a 4-year program for Primary School. The school enrollment remained very low during this period. On 16 Nov 1924, the school became a 6-year program. On 21 Mar 1926, the school had its first graduating class. At this time, primary education was not mandatory and many of the farmers simply could not afford the educational expenses. A significant portion of the population was disenfranchised from educational opportunities.


1940 Graduating Class (1940) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book) (2003))

Teaching class in Japanese (1940) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book) (2003))	Students in classroom (1940) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book) (2003))
Students assembled in front of Japanese flag (1940) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book) (2003))	Sports Day (1940) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book) (2003))

In 1945, a school in Seojong-ni was established and called the Jisan-ni Training School "branch." This was marked by an official "opening" ceremony on 24 Sep 1945. It moved to its 3-classroom school house in 1947 and became the Seojong-ni Elementary School in 1948.


Graduating Class (1945) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book) (2003))

After WWII, the intent of these schools was to teach the Koreans to once again read "hangul" (Korean) -- after years of Japanese colonial rule which banned the use of Hangul in schools in 1937 -- and it succeeded as the Korean populace currently has a 98 percent literacy rate. In 1949, elementary education was made compulsory with this specific purpose in mind of teaching literacy.

On 13 Jan 1951, the school operations were shut down due to the North Korean invasion. It reopened on 11 Jun 1951 after the threat of another Chinese invasion of Seoul abated. On 1 Apr 1952 an Parent-Teacher Association was formed to make classes possible. At the time, primary school education was mandatory, but the government was without funds. During the Korean War, PTA associations were formed throughout the nation under a system whereby the parents would "donate" 75 percent of the operating costs (i.e., teacher's salaries) while the ROK government paid the remainder. By 31 Jul 1954, the school had 16 classes.

During the Korean War many refugees flocked to the area boosting the number of students. The Songtan area experienced a population explosion, but there were no schools to handle the new influx of kids. Seojong-ni Elementary was the closest elementary school. (NOTE: In a 1952 8mm movie by Robert Evilsizor, 839th EAB Co A commander, children marching in line were captured on film. At this time, we are assuming these children were happily marching to the Seojong Elementary.) In 1955, the Songbuk Elementary was opened that helped to relieve some of the pressure on the Seojong Elementary. On 12 Nov 1959, the present playground area was added to the school.

Seojong Elementary School. (1961) (Seojong Elementary Photo Display (2005)) (NOTE: Christian religious education)	Seojong Elementary School. (1961) (Seojong Elementary Photo Display (2005)) (NOTE: Christian religious education)
Seojong Elementary School. (1961) (Seojong Elementary Photo Display (2005))	Seojong Elementary School. (1961) (Seojong Elementary Photo Display (2005))

Seojong Elementary School. (1961) (Seojong Elementary Photo Display (2005))

By the mid-1960s, Korea's economy had improved dramatically under the 5-year programs of the Park Chung-hee administration. Though the country remained poor, there were more funds available for education which remained a government priority. At that time, high school graduates could qualify for elementary school teacher positions, but soon more two-year teacher colleges were established to improve the quality of education and qualifications for teachers increased.

In the late 1970s, Park Chung-hee ordered a massive reconstruction of the Songtan Shinjang area that spread to the Seojong-ni area. Roads were paved and new major roads were laid out on a "grid" pattern such as the road leading to the Train Station. Unfortunately for old village areas like those behind and in front of the Seojong Elementary, they remained small alleyways. On 14 Dec 1977, tier stands on playground were added.

School building (1973) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003)) (NOTE: Notice the new building in foreground and old building in background.)

Students walking (1973) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003)) (NOTE: Notice old building in rear.)

Volleyball Team (1973) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003)) (NOTE: Notice old building in rear.)

Sports Day (1974) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book) (2003))

Students Autumn Festival (1978) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book) (2003))

In the 1980s, the Miracle of the Han arrived in the Seojong-ni area. More factories were relocating to the area aided by government programs -- and along with the factories, workers families increased. The Jungang Apartments were added to the area and again the student population grew. There were 60 classes with 3,000 students making it one of the largest schools in the Pyeongtaek area. On 16 Oct 1981, the school added a kindergarten. On 11 Mar 1983, two special education classes for handicapped children was added. On 22 Oct 1984 a public address system for 30 classrooms was added. On 21 Aug 1989, 6 classes were added -- and new upgraded bathrooms were constructed.

School entrance (1980) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Front of School (1980) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Cub scouts (1980) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Front of School (1980) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Students in class (1980) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Talent Contest (1980) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Students on Outing (1985) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Student Activity (1986) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Bluebirds Activity (1986) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

In 1991, the school added a Girls' Volleyball Team and Boys' Soccer Team that won the area championship later. On 14 Feb 1998, the cafeteria was enlarged to 66.2 pyeong. Between Sep-Nov 1999, major reconstruction projects were done to the school.

School Buildings (1991) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Students in class (1994) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Computer Lab (1998) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 20 Feb 2000, a 100-year time capsule was buried on the school grounds. On 29 Nov 2001, the rear of the school had expansion projects done. On 2 Feb 2002, the school held its 77th graduation thus bring the total to 16,534 students graduated from its beginnings. By 2 Mar 2002, the school had 41 classrooms and 2 special education classes. However, because of the building of the Jijang Elementary School, Ichung Elementary School and Songil Elementary School, the student population of Seojong Elementary has been dropping. By 2002, there were 41 classes with 1620 students.

School Assemby (2002) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Students in class (2002) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Students in class (2003) (Seojong Elementary 80th Anniversary Book (2003))

Seojong Elementary Playground (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)

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Hyomyung Middle School and Hyomyung High School (1953) In June 2005, we ran across an HQ Far East Air Force (FEAF) news release that mentioned a school being built by the 18th FBW. The HQ FEAF, 5th Air Force news release on 22 Jan 1954 read in part: "The airmen of the 18th Fighter Bomber Wing provided materials and finances for a new eight-room country school house near Osan for 280 Korean grammar school children. While Korean builders speeded the construction of the new building, men of the 18th Wing utilized their off-duty time in the base hobby shop making 90 double desks and 140 double seats needed for the students."

We began our search for the school at the time in the immediate area -- with no luck. However, while conducting an interview on the Seojong-ni area schools at Hyomyung Middle School, we were shown the 2003 50th Anniversary edition yearbook of the Hyomyung Schools and a small article by Father Dominicus -- the Catholic priest of St. Theresa's Church in Seojong-ni between 1952-1960 -- documented the building of the school by the 18th FBW of K-55 (Osan AB) donations.

According to the History of the 18th Fighter Bomber Wing 1 Jan 1954 to 30 Jun 1954, Office of the WIng Chaplain, written by 1st Lt. Andrew J. McLean, Deputy Wing Chaplain, and signed by Bernhardt G. Hoffman, Wing Chaplain talks of the St. Theresa's school. From this history, it appears that the funding and donations of time and effort for the construction of the furniture was solely due to the Catholic personnel on base -- and did not involve the Protestant group. There were over twice the number of Catholics (12,219) on base as there were Protestants (5,339) and Jewish (40). At this time, the Protestant Chaplain was attempting to set up a Wing Orphanage Program, but there appears to have been a lack of support from the wing leadership. Wing Chaplain Major George M. Rinkowski who had initiated the action had rotated to the states (Chanute Air Force Base) in Apr 1954. (Source: 51st FW/HO, John Okonski.)

Humanitarian Services:

a. The Catholic Chaplain's Fund sponsored a primary and middle school at So-Jong-Ri, Korea. The present building and equipment were provided entirely through the contributions of the Catholic personnel on the base. Further improvements are under way with a view to extending the size of the school by three rooms through AFAK, and an additional two rooms provided through the Fund, making it eight rooms in all. The expense of erecting the building will be assumed by the Fund. Over $6,000.00 has already been donated towards this project since January 1st. Another $6,000.00 to $9,000.00 expenditure is contemplated to complete the project.

b. Towards various charitable projects in Korea the Catholic Fund, besides the building of St. Theresa's School, has contributed over $2,000.00.

c. An expenditure, in addition, from the Catholic Fund of $800.00 has been approved for the purpose of providing a playground for the children of St. Theresa's School.

d. The tuition for three (3) years each, amounting to $360.00 for the education of two (2) Korean boys has been provided by the Catholic Chaplain's Fund. (Source: History of the 18th Fighter Bomber Wing 1 Jan 1954 to 30 Jun 1954, Office of the WIng Chaplain)

Chaplain (Maj) Rinkowski and St. Theresa's Middle School (1952) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

The Rev. Fr. George M. Rinkowski died on 16 June 2006 at the age of 93 in Toledo, Ohio. He served the Diocese of Toledo for over 65 years. Amongst his many accomplishments, he never forgot his contribution in establishing that small school at St. Theresa's (Seojong-ni Catholic Church) that turned into the Hyomyung Middle & High School:

George M. Rinkowski Lucas County U.S. Army Air Corps- WWII U.S. Air Force- Korea Volunteered for service in the Army in World War II, then transferred into other branches of service. Landed in Yokohama, Japan, 11:00 a.m., 2 September 1945; 35 months in Japan. Life member of VFW, American Legion, AMVETS, Korean War Veterans, Catholic War Veterans. Life Honorary member of Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. Member Knights of Columbus. Member Lagrange Business and Professional Association. Past national chaplain of Veterans of Foreign Wars (two years). Distributed 4800 tons of clothing from the United States to Korean orphans. Initiated construction of a school in Korea. (Source: Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame Class of 1999.)

Reverend Father George M. Rinkowski, who served the Diocese of Toledo for 65 years, died Friday, June 16, 2006, in Flower Hospital. Reverend Rinkowski was born to John and Anna (Gunka) Rinkowski in North Toledo on February 8, 1913. He attended St. Michael Parish School and Central Catholic High School, graduating in 1933. After Studying at St. John University, Desales College, St. Gregory Seminary and St. Mary Seminary, he was ordained to the Priesthood in June 1941. After ordination, Father served in parishes in Erie, Crawford, Lucas, Wyandot and Paulding Counties. He volunteered for service in the Army in 1945 as a First Lieutenant, later becoming a Captain before transferring to the United States Air Force. Father Rinkowski's duty assignments took him to Wyoming, the Far East, the Philippines, Japan, Elgin Air Proving Grounds, Randolph Air Force Base, Warren Air Force Base, Korea and Chaunte Air Force Base. He returned to civilian life in 1956 and assisted with the Newman Clubs, lecturing on philosophy and religion for ten years. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus since 1941, attaining the Fourth Degree in 1950 Father Rinkowski was a member of the VFW Post 587 in Paulding Ohio, VFW Post 5530 in Toledo, Catholic War Veterans Jude Thaddeus Post 1675, American Legion, AMVETS, Polish Veterans General Anders Post 74, Military order of the Cooties, and 40/8 Voiture 414 Ohio. The Toledo Chapter of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association awarded Father Rinkowski with an honorary life membership for his service and support. He was a member and chaplain of the Citizens' Monitor Board, and also a member of the LaGrange Business and Professional Association. Father Rinkowski's last assignment was as the Pastor of St. Hedwig's Parish. In this position, he advised and promoted the Senior Center and worked on preserving the Public Library in the LaGrange Street neighborhood . Fr. George was also the driving force that led the neighborhood in purchasing the Ohio Theater in 1976, and was the designer of it's unique stage. He is survived by his sisters, Lillian Knorr and Anna Rinkowski and by many nieces and nephews. ... (Source: Published in the Toledo Blade from 6/18/2006 - 6/20/2006)

The Hyomyung Middle School 50th Anniversary Edition (2003) shed light on this school. The postcard in the photo reads: "This school was built by Catholic Airmen, Army Personnel, SCARWAF Personnel of K-55 through their generous contributions at Masses during the past six months. Bishop Paul M. Rho, Bishop of Seoul, (blocked out) the $6,000 (blocked out) 6 January 1954." According to Mr. Kim Jong-youp, Vice-Principal of Hyomyung Middle School, the structure was built in what is now the parking lot of the Seojong Catholic Church.

It appears that $6,000 -- a significant amount of money at that time -- was donated towards the construction of the school done under contract, The key man in getting this going was Chaplain (Major) Rinkowski of the Wing Chaplain of the 18th FBW and Father Dominicu (Korean priest) of the St. Theresa's Church in Seojong-ni. However, this project was not well-publicized and may have been a strictly Catholic airmen initiative as many veterans of that period did not know of this school.


St. Theresa's Middle School (1957) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

The Seojong Church (St. Theresa's Catholic Church) was founded on its present location in 1937. Prior to the building of the new school structure, Father Dominicu (Ryu Su-cheol) (1918-1977) was teaching a small number of students in the rectory in 1952. Father Dominicu served at the Seojong Catholic Church from 1952-1960.


Father Dominicu teaching in Rectory (1952) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

The building was erected in 1953 and called "St. Theresa Middle School" -- and is the predecessor of the present Hyomyung Middle School. (NOTE: It appears that the date of the official opening of the structure by Bishop Paul M. Rho is used as the founding date of the Hyomyung Middle School. The Hyomung Middle School was founded on 21 May 1953 -- and followed by the Hyomyung High School on 21 May 1956. The school's first classrooms at its present location about a quarter-mile down the road from the Seojong-ni Catholic Church was built in 1960, but it wasn't officially moved until 1964.)

(L) Seojong Catholic Church Parking Lot (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan) (NOTE: Site of St. Theresa's Middle School in 1953.) (R) Seojong Catholic Church (2005) (Kalani O'Sullivan)


St. Theresa's Middle School. Fr. Dominicu in center. (1953) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


St. Theresa's Middle School in front of church rectory (1956) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


St. Theresa's Middle School in front of church rectory (1956) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

On 26 Feb 1957, the Hyomyuing High School created with three classes. On this date, the first principal Kim Kyang-ha took control acting both as a teacher and principal. On 10 Feb 1960, Hyomyung High School year graduated its first class of 24 boys and 9 girls.


(L) St. Theresa's Middle School in front of church rectory. Fr. Dominicu in center. (1958) (R) St. Theresa's Middle School Class (1959) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))


St. Theresa's Middle School in front of church rectory (1959) (Hyomyung 50th Anniversary Book (2003))

From 15 Mar 1960 to 20 Dec 1960, construction took place to build 10 classrooms (903.57 sq meter). This is t