South Korean Christian Zionists open country's first Holocaust museum | The Times of Israel

South Korean Christian Zionists open country's first Holocaust museum | The Times of Israel



Live Update From the Liveblog of Monday, May 19, 2025
South Korean Christian Zionists open country’s first Holocaust museum

By Zev Stub
Follow19 May 2025, 9:27 pm
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Israel's ambassador to South Korea Rafi Harpaz examines an exhibit at the new Holocaust museum in Paju, South Korea, May 19, 2025. (KIBI)


South Korea has opened the country’s first Holocaust museum, marking its commitment to remember the Nazi murder of six million Jews and to fight against hatred.

The museum, established by the Christian Zionist group Korea Israel Bible Institute (KIBI) in the city of Paju, opened its doors today in a ceremony attended by public figures and diplomats, including Israel’s ambassador to Korea Rafi Harpaz.

Built after years of work and research, the museum includes a unique exhibition on the Holocaust, the Jewish people, and the State of Israel, KIBI says.
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“After October 7, we witnessed a shocking rise in hatred toward Israel and the Jewish people — even here in Korea,” says Professor Song Man Seok, a leader in the KIBI community and the driving force behind the museum. “It was a wake-up call for us: we must educate the public about the Jewish people, about the Holocaust, and about the real meaning of genocide. At the same time, we wanted to send a clear message of solidarity and support to the Jewish people.”

Israel has had diplomatic ties with South Korea since 1962 and has developed strong trade relations. The country’s citizens have publicly admired Jewish academic and entrepreneurial success, with Jewish history and culture even taught in some schools.