Our Start

In early 2012, Yemeni refugee Alex arrived in South Korea seeking religious asylum after fleeing imprisonment and torture by his family and tribe, who had issued a fatwa calling for his execution due to his apostasy from Islam. In 2014, he learned that a death sentence had been officially issued against him in absentia, certified by the Ministry of Justice.

From his arrival until 2017, Alex shared his story in various churches and on public platforms, raising awareness about the persecution of apostates and the need for a supportive Arab Christian community.

In early 2017, he connected with Korean missionaries who had served in Arab countries and understood both the Arabic language and the struggles of religious refugees—marking the beginning of the Arab Church in South Korea.

Our Evolving Story

The Arabic Church began with gatherings hosted by a Korean church that provided a supportive environment, invited Arab missionaries to South Korea, and offered Bible and faith lessons. The baptism of many converts, including Alex—who chose to be baptized again by a Yemeni priest despite his initial baptism in 2012—marked a key moment in the church’s establishment in Seoul.

Despite challenges during COVID-19, including travel restrictions preventing Arab missionaries and pastors from attending, the church remained active by transitioning to online meetings. Following this period, it separated from its founder, Alex, to embrace a more inclusive vision, welcoming diverse nationalities while continuing its mission of evangelism, community service, and providing a safe space for religious converts and those seeking to learn about Jesus Christ.