Saint Ioannes Baptista Chon Changun

Biography

Saint Ioannes Baptista Chon Changun, also known as Jeon Jang-Un, Yohan, and John Baptist Chon Chang-un, was born in 1811 in Seoul, South Korea. He was a married layman, father, and family man who lived in the apostolic vicariate of Korea during a time of great persecution against Christians. Chon Changun was an adult convert to the Catholic faith and became deeply committed to spreading the gospel in his country. He worked closely with another saint, Saint Petrus Ch’Oe Hyong, in the apostolate of publishing Christian books in Korean. Together, they played a significant role in making Christian literature accessible to the Korean people, despite the severe restrictions and oppression imposed by the authorities. The publication of these Christian books in Korean was seen as a threat by the government, which viewed Christianity as a foreign religion that undermined traditional Korean values. Chon Changun and Ch’Oe Hyong faced constant surveillance and threats from the authorities as a result of their work. Their dedication to their faith eventually led to their arrest and imprisonment. Chon Changun, along with Ch’Oe Hyong, suffered unimaginable torture at the hands of their captors, yet they remained steadfast in their faith and refused to renounce their beliefs. Their commitment to Christ and the Church ultimately cost them their lives. On March 9, 1866, Chon Changun was executed alongside Ch’Oe Hyong in the village of In-Ko-Ri, near Seoul. They were hailed as martyrs for their unwavering faith and their sacrifices in defense of their Christian convictions. In recognition of their martyrdom and the immense importance of their witness, Pope Paul VI decreed the veneration of Chon Changun on July 4, 1968. Later, on October 6, 1968, Pope Paul VI beatified him, and on May 6, 1984, Pope John Paul II canonized him as a saint. Saint Ioannes Baptista Chon Changun is now revered as a model of Christian virtue, particularly in times of persecution. Although he had a humble background as a married layman, he showed that one's devotion to Christ can be demonstrated in any walk of life. His courage, faithfulness, and unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel continue to inspire Catholics around the world. Though he does not have a specific patronage, many pray to him for strength and intercession in times of religious oppression and persecution.