A new photo-based book chronicling the life and accomplishments of early Protestant missionary Henry G. Appenzeller has been published to commemorate the 140th anniversary of Paichai Academy, one of South Korea’s oldest modern schools, Christian Daily Korea reports.
The book “Henry G. Appenzeller in Photographs,” published by the Appenzeller Memorial Foundation, uses more than 100 historical photographs to trace the missionary’s activities in Korea from his arrival in 1885 to his death in 1902. The book was primarily created for distribution to new students at Paichai High School, founded by Appenzeller, but is also intended as a broader educational resource.
Appenzeller, an American Methodist missionary, is widely known as a pioneer of modern education and Protestant missionary work in Korea. He founded the Paichai Academy and later the Jeongdong Methodist Church, playing an important role in shaping early Christian education in the late Joseon Dynasty.
This book was written and edited by Kim Nak-hwan, executive director of the Appenzeller Memorial Foundation and a longtime researcher of Appenzeller’s life and thought. Mr. Kim has previously published several academic works on missionaries.
In an interview with Christian Daily Korea, Kim said that the purpose of the publication is to help readers understand Appenzeller’s faith, character, and way of life, and to inspire future generations to embody similar values.
“That doesn’t necessarily mean being a missionary,” Kim said. “But we hope that our future leaders will live in the same spirit.”
According to the foundation, the book is structured chronologically, starting with Appenzeller’s arrival in South Korea and the historical background of the time, followed by chapters on the establishment of Paisai Academy and Jeongdong Church, the missionaries and the Koreans who worked with him, and Appenzeller’s death.
The book also documents Appenzeller’s influence on prominent Korean figures, including South Korea’s first president, Syngman Rhee, and medical, educational, and independence movement leaders who were educated at Paichai or worked closely with him.
Kim said many early Korean Christians who later became pastors and leaders were influenced by Appenzeller’s example and chose a life of faith over personal advancement.
A notable feature of this book is its focus on photography, including images taken by Appenzeller himself. Missionaries recorded the landscape, architecture, and religious sites of Korea, often recording dates and descriptions. Kim said the photos reflect Appenzeller’s respect and love for Korean people and culture.
Examining the images, Kim pointed out that Appenzeller often appears in the background of group photos, even in scenes where Appenzeller is the central character, such as at Paichai Academy and Jeongdong Church.
“If you look at the photos, he seems like a very humble person,” Kim said, adding that Appenzell consistently allowed others to take on prominent roles.
The Appenzeller Memorial Foundation said the publication was made possible after years of collecting archival materials and photographs. Planning for this book began in advance of Pai Chai Academy’s 140th anniversary.
Academic and church leaders welcomed the book’s release. Pai Chai University President Kim Wook said the book connected the school’s historical roots with its future mission, while former Methodist minister Choi Yi-woo said the book was a reminder of Christian identity and commitment.
The foundation said an expanded version of the book will be published in the coming months, along with additional publications such as a translation of Appenzeller’s financial report, which Kim said will provide insight into early missionary life and responsibilities.
The expanded edition is scheduled to be released at bookstores nationwide this month.
