Korean Marian Anecdotes

The Virgin in the land of calm

South Korea has one of the most dynamic Catholic communities in Asia. Marian stories combine Korean sensitivity with Christian faith, creating a unique spirituality.

Main data

The first Korean martyrs

In 1839, the first Catholic martyrs of Korea were executed. Tradition tells that before they died, they prayed the Rosary and saw a light on them. The soldiers who executed them said they had seen a light woman accompanying the martyrs. Korean Catholics interpreted this as the presence of the Virgin Mary.

La Virgen de Namyang

En Namyang, los católicos cuentan que en 1985, una estatua de la Virgen en una iglesia empezó a desprender un olor dulce a flores. El olor duró varios días y miles de personas vinieron a verlo. Los obispos investigaron y dijeron que era un «signo de la providencia divina». Hoy, esa estatua sigue emitiendo el olor en ocasiones especiales.

The Virgin and the students

In Seoul, Catholic university students have a tradition: before the important examinations, they go to the Myeongdong Cathedral to pray before the image of the Virgin. They say the Virgin gives them calm and wisdom. Many students attribute their academic successes to Mary's intercession.

The Virgin of the Jeju Mountain

On the island of Jeju, fishermen and farmers say that the Virgin appears in the mountains of the island when there is danger. The elders say Mary walks among the tangerine fields protecting the little ones.