Are you in Korea and searching for a welcoming church? Handong International Congregation (HIC) in Pohang is worth visiting. It’s located at Handong Global University (HGU) and is home to many expatriates and locals.
HGU is a Christian university located in Pohang, South Korea, known for its strong emphasis on global education and character development. Established in 1995, HGU aims to cultivate leaders who serve the world with integrity and expertise. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, all taught with a focus on innovation, critical thinking, and ethical values.
With students and faculty from various countries, HGU fosters a multicultural environment, encouraging cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Its beautiful campus, equipped with modern facilities, provides an ideal setting for academic excellence and spiritual growth.
Between 2017 and 2019, while studying at Handong International Law School, I found a spiritual home at HIC. HIC offered me peace, joy, and a profound sense of belonging during my time in Pohang.
Each Sunday, the All Nations Chapel became a haven where diverse voices united in worship, creating a beautiful symphony of faith. The vibrant community, heartfelt fellowship, and opportunities for growth made HIC more than a church—it was a family and the highlight of my life in Pohang.
What is the most peculiar aspect of Handong International Church?
HIC is a unique congregation with a blend of international students, faculty, and local residents. This diversity creates a rich environment where people from different cultures and backgrounds come together to worship and grow in their faith. The congregation’s inclusive nature makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
During my two years of fellowship at Handong International Congregation, I had the privilege of meeting people from countless countries. While Koreans formed the majority, I fondly recall engaging with individuals from Japan, Mongolia, Russia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the United States, Canada, and many African nations, to name just a few. The diversity within the congregation was truly remarkable, creating a rich and welcoming environment. With services conducted in English, it was effortless to connect and participate, making every gathering both meaningful and accessible.
A Truly International Leadership
One of the most international aspects of Handong International Congregation is its leadership. The resident pastor, Gregory Brown, and his wife, Tara, hail from the United States, bringing a unique global perspective to the church. Pastor Brown is a highly respected leader known for his profound biblical teachings and unwavering commitment to the congregation.
With a passion for fostering spiritual growth, he delivers sermons that are both insightful and practical, blending his deep scriptural knowledge with personal experiences to inspire and guide the community.
Pastor Brown’s approachable demeanor and genuine care for individuals make him a source of encouragement for many, whether through his preaching, counseling, or mentorship. His commitment to fostering a Christ-centered community at Handong has made a lasting impact on the congregation, uniting people from diverse backgrounds in worship and spiritual growth for nearly 20 years now. He remains one of my spiritiual inspirations till date.
The staff and elders at HIC are mostly non-Koreans making it a suitable worship place for everyone.
Service Times
Services are held every Sunday at 9am – 10:30 AM at the All Nations Chapel on the university campus. It’s a peaceful space to worship. Need directions? The church office is happy to help at hic@handong.edu.
Worship led by the English Praise Team
The English Praise Team(EPT) at Handong International Congregation is a vibrant and dedicated group of musicians and vocalists from diverse backgrounds, united by their passion for worship. They lead the congregation in heartfelt praise every Sunday, blending contemporary worship songs with timeless hymns to create an atmosphere of reverence and joy.
With members from various countries, their music reflects the global nature of the church, offering a rich and uplifting worship experience. Their commitment to excellence and genuine heart for God make them an integral part of the HIC community, drawing people into deeper connection through worship.
I wouldn’t call myself an excellent vocalist, but I am forever grateful to have been part of the EPT. Singing each morning and rehearsing every Sunday truly felt like the perfect place for me. I found immense joy in harmonizing to the best of my ability and eagerly learning from others. The team’s kindness and patience with my limited musical knowledge made every moment special—they were welcoming, encouraging, and genuinely friendly in every interaction.
Joining the English Praise Team at Handong International Congregation
If you’re passionate about music, you’re probably already wondering how to join the English Praise Team (EPT)—I know I did! As a campus church, HIC experiences regular turnover as students graduate, so EPT holds recruitment every semester. When the announcement is made during church, an audition date is set. On that day, applicants sing in front of EPT leaders, who are incredibly skilled and knowledgeable in all things music.
I still vividly remember my own audition day. I was so nervous—having never auditioned for a church choir before, I sang off-pitch and felt absolutely terrified. But the leaders were kind, giving me a chance to try again and encouraging me to wait for the results after recruitment ended. When I found out I had made the team, I was overjoyed. Of course, not everyone gets in, but the process is fair, and joining EPT remains one of my most cherished experiences.
Lunch Fellowship with EPT Friends
Sharing lunch with EPT friends after Sunday service at Handong International Congregation was always a highlight of the week. We would gather at cozy restaurants or the campus cafeteria, savoring delicious Korean dishes like bibimbap, kimbap, or spicy stews while exchanging stories and laughter.
The meals were more than just food; they were moments of connection, where friendships deepened over shared experiences and lighthearted conversations. Whether we were discussing the morning sermon, cultural differences, or simply life in Pohang, these lunches brought warmth and a sense of belonging that made every gathering special.
It was also normal to share meals or cakes during birthdays. For birthdays at HIC, one memorable tradition was creating a personalized card filled with heartfelt messages. Everyone in the group would write a secret note for the celebrant, expressing their appreciation and well wishes. These messages were compiled into a beautiful card adorned with pictures that reflected shared memories and special moments. Receiving such a card on or before a birthday was truly touching—it was a joy to read the lovely words and feel the warmth of the community’s love and support.
Programs for Kids and Youth at Handong Global University
During service, kids can join Sunday School for fun and learning about God. Youth have regular Bible studies, activities, and fellowship.
Before becoming a member of HIC, interested individuals are required to attend a brief course held over a few weeks. These sessions are thoughtfully organized to last about an hour at a convenient time for participants. I’m so glad I took part in this training—it provided me with a solid understanding of the church’s doctrine and foundational truths, enriching my faith journey and connection to the congregation.
The Purity Pledge was a program led by Pastor Greg for the youth. It focused on living a sexually pure life based on biblical teachings. The sessions were short but very impactful. At the end, participants graduated and received a purity ring. The ring was a physical symbol of their commitment to stay pure until marriage. I joined the program and learned so much. It was a truly rewarding experience.
Strong Community
After service, it was normal for members to split and connect over coffee and snacks. It’s a great time to meet others and make friends.
Equally, events like potlucks, cultural nights, and outreach programs are fairly common at HIC.
Every year, HGU hosted an annual BBQ by the grilling pits. After church, congregants gathered to share a meal together. We enjoyed sausages, hotdogs, and plenty of ketchup and mustard. Juice and sodas were also available in abundance.
Pastor Gregory Brown and his lovely wife, Mrs. Tara, also visited regional communities around Handong to offer encouragement and support. One memorable occasion was their visit to the Handong African Community, where we were overjoyed to welcome them.
Dressed in beautiful African attire, they shared a meal with us, and Pastor Brown inspired us with a heartfelt message about unity. Adding to the joy, there was an annual service dedicated to African students, where we celebrated our culture by performing vibrant African songs, creating cherished memories for everyone involved.
Small groups at Handong International Congregation
These groups are an essential part of church life, offering a space for deeper fellowship and spiritual growth. These groups bring together members from diverse backgrounds to study the Bible, share personal experiences, and support one another through prayer and encouragement.
Meeting every Sunday after service on or off campus, they provide a close-knit environment where relationships flourish beyond Sunday services. Whether you’re seeking to explore your faith more intimately or connect with others on a personal level, joining a small group at HIC is a wonderful way to grow both spiritually and relationally.
Small groups at HIC had about 5-6 people, each with a leader accountable to the main leaders. After service, some leaders took us to restaurants by Pohang beach. Other times, we gathered at the Handong football stadium or in small classrooms.
My favorite moments were taking pictures by the campus trees, especially during cherry blossom season. We laughed a lot, and there were always jokes. It was a fun and unforgettable time.
A Time of Renewal: HIC Retreats
Retreats at Handong International Congregation are treasured occasions for spiritual renewal and building deeper connections. These gatherings, often held in peaceful settings on campus, offer time away from daily routines to focus on worship, insightful teachings, and heartfelt discussions.
They are more than just spiritual events—they’re filled with laughter, interactive activities, and shared meals that create lasting memories. From moments of quiet prayer to lively group games, these retreats rejuvenate the spirit and strengthen the bonds of community, leaving participants inspired and ready to grow in their faith together.
One retreat I particularly remember was led by Pastor Sungcho. He encouraged all EPT members with Bible teachings and held open one-on-one discussions with anyone willing to talk. It was a meaningful and personal experience for all involved.
Mission trip
Missions to the Philippines through Handong International Congregation have been profound opportunities to serve, connect, and grow spiritually. These missions often focus on partnering with local communities to address needs, whether through educational programs, building projects, or sharing the gospel.
In 2019, I joined a group of about 15 EHDS participants to travel to the Phillipines. We immersed ourselves in the culture, embraced the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people while contributing to meaningful projects that make a lasting impact.
We visited 4 or 5 local congregations in several remote communities within the Tugagarao province in Cagayan. It was a blessing to share Christ with them and learn about their lives.
Beyond the work, these missions provide moments of worship, reflection, and personal growth, as team members witness the power of faith in action. The experience not only strengthens bonds within the group but also leaves a lasting impression of hope and gratitude in the hearts of everyone involved.
One of my favorite memories of this trip was the delicious Filipino food.
Why Handong International Congregation?
One remarkable Christmas was spent at the home of one of our associate pastor, surrounded by friends and the warmth of the holiday spirit. Pastor Choi and his family welcomed us with open arms, their home beautifully decorated and filled with the comforting aroma of festive dishes.
We shared a meal that felt more like a feast, with laughter and stories flowing freely around the table. After dinner, we gathered to sing Christmas carols, and the pastor shared a heartfelt message about the true meaning of the season, leaving us deeply moved.
The evening ended with a small exchange of gifts and a prayer, making it one of the most memorable and meaningful celebrations of Christmas I have ever experienced.
If you want a warm, supportive church community, HIC is for you. It’s open to students, professionals, and families alike.
Why should you visit?
Handong International Congregation is more than a church; it’s family. From worship to fellowship, HIC helps you grow in faith. If you’re in Pohang, join us and experience the community firsthand! Here’s teh church’s website for further inquiries.
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