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Blessed Maria Yi Seong

Blessed

Martyr

Post-Congregation

Feast Day: 31-Jan

Born: 1801 in Hongju, South Korea

Died: Beheaded on 31 January 1840 in Danggogae, South Korea

Beatified: 16 August 2014 by Pope Francis at Gwanghwamun Square, Seoul, South Korea

Venerated: 7 February 2014 by Pope Francis (decree of martyrdom)

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Biography

Blessed Maria Yi Seong was a lay woman and devoted mother who was born in Hongju, South Korea in 1801. She was married to Saint Franciscus Ch'oe Kyong-Hwan, with whom she shared a deep faith and love for their Catholic faith.

Maria Yi Seong's life took a tragic turn when she witnessed the martyrdom of her husband, Saint Franciscus. Overwhelmed by grief and fear, Maria temporarily renounced her faith in an attempt to protect herself and her family. However, her heart soon filled with remorse, and she quickly realized the gravity of her actions. Deeply repentant, Maria returned to the Church and resolved to live out her faith with renewed fervor.

Unfortunately, Maria's strength and devotion to her faith did not go unnoticed. In a time when Christianity faced severe persecution in Korea, Maria became a target for authorities who sought to stamp out the Catholic faith. Despite the risks that came with openly professing her Christianity, Maria remained steadfast and unyielding.

On January 31, 1840, Maria Yi Seong was martyred for her unwavering faith in Danggogae, South Korea. She was beheaded, joining the ranks of countless other Korean martyrs who gave their lives for their belief in Christ. Maria's sacrifice and unfaltering loyalty to her faith serves as a powerful testament to the strength of the Korean Catholic community during this challenging period.

Blessed Maria Yi Seong's martyrdom did not go unrecognized. On February 7, 2014, Pope Francis decreed her venerable, recognizing her heroic virtue and the sanctity of her life. Later, on August 16, 2014, Pope Francis beatified Maria Yi Seong at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul, South Korea, elevating her to the status of Blessed.

Today, Blessed Maria Yi Seong is remembered and venerated as an inspiration and martyr for the Korean Catholic Church. Her feast day is celebrated on January 31, honoring the day on which she was martyred. As a mother and laywoman, Maria's story resonates deeply with many, reminding them of the strength and courage required to live out their faith even in the face of severe adversity.