The first seminary in Korea.
The first co-ed university in Korea.
The hub of the nation’s independence movement.

Welcome to the homepage of Methodist Theological University, the leading university of this global age.

Welcome Remarks
Welcome, in the name of the Lord! Methodist Theological University, the first theological school in Korea, was established in 1887, marking 137 years of its history and tradition. Having first opened its doors to 8 students, our institution has since produced competent future leaders of the church and the world, including 7 of the 33 activists heading the independence movement in a period of national crisis.

A new crisis is threatening the welfare of both the school and the Korean church. Due to low birth rates, rapid decline in the school-age population has greatly affected church school operations. Combined with increased apathy toward religion because of secularization and a diminished sphere of influence of the church, the results have been twofold. Many have stopped attending church all the while resentment towards it has only increased. Our institution currently is facing difficulties in recruiting students because of a failure to keep up with society.

It is time for change. We must envision a second founding that will help us soar over the current existential threats and propel us forward. We must raise a banner focused on reviving our well-preserved tradition of spirituality, intellect, and social sanctification. Change will begin by restoring the founding ideals of academia, piety, and praxis. This means that we seek to expand the evangelical research capabilities of faculty professors for higher academic standards. Not only that, but we will also enhance the seminary experience for students by implementing a core professor system for both undergraduate and graduate students. We also aim to strengthen relationships with current church leaders for a more extensive and effective training of piety. Furthermore, we will open avenues of praxis of various forms—all in order to help students grow into competent pastors and leaders both domestically and internationally.

As the sixteenth President of our beloved Methodist Theological University, I aim to be the ribbon tying together a diverse bouquet, not a solitary emanating flower. I have also previously promised that I would care for our students’ spiritual, physical, and mental well-being in addition to deeply appreciating the love and support the alumni have for the school. I will remember these promises in ensuring that the Methodist Theological University will not disappoint the expectations our denomination and its affiliated churches have for us.

I will do my best to make our institution the pride of our nation and the ivory tower of intellect that develops leaders of the gospel. I will do my best to inherit the faith and theology of John Wesley, establishing the Bible as the foundation of truth, exemplifying a rational and objective worldview, and carrying on our tradition, inspired by the Holy Spirit. I will also do my best to train our students to be the true salt and light in the world.

16th President of Methodist Theological University Yoo Kyoungdong