A Memorial Tribute to the Rev. Dr. Joon Kwan Un: Pioneer, Mentor, and Visionary
The Rev. Dr. Joon Kwan Un (December 9, 1933 – January 16, 2023) was a distinguished Korean Methodist minister, religious educator, and theologian whose theology of education and commitment to the church profoundly shaped Korean religious education. Widely known as the godparent of Korean religious education and practical theology, Dr. Un dedicated his life to establishing religious education as both a cutting-edge academic discipline and a socially engaged practice deeply rooted in the lived experiences of communities.
He earned his undergraduate degree from the Methodist Theological University in Seoul, Korea, and pursued a Th.M. at Duke Divinity School, focusing on systematic theology and religious education. He later completed his Doctor of Theology at the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, California. After retiring from Yonsei University, where he served as a professor, Dean of the School of Theology, and Dean of Religious Life, Dr. Un founded and served as president of the Graduate School of Practical Theology in Korea, an ecumenical graduate school.
Un was similarly visionary for the academic community. In addition to international collaborations on projects and speaking frequently in the United States and Canada, he was active in the International Academy of Practical Theology. He hosted and planned the program for the Academy’s first meeting outside of Western Europe and North America, contributing to the expansion of largely Western networks to include Asia and the larger world. Through these efforts, he advanced global partnerships and widened the scope of practical theology to embrace diverse voices and perspectives.
To highlight this remarkable scholar, teacher, and mentor—whose passing I still grieve, mourn, and feel heartbroken over—I would like to share who he was as a person, a life through which his enduring legacy of inspiration and transformation shines brightly. His theology of education laid the foundation for Korean religious education, transforming it into a vibrant and socially transformative field. Without his visionary leadership, Korean religious education would not have achieved its current prominence.
As a former student of Dr. Un, I witnessed firsthand how his groundbreaking vision and compassionate mentorship shaped not only academic disciplines but also the lives of his students. Meeting Dr. Un as my professor at Yonsei University in the early 1980s was a life-changing moment. His teaching ignited my passion for religious education and practical theology, leading me to dedicate my life to this work.
Dr. Un had a rare ability to connect academic rigor with the realities of lived experience, making theology a practice of justice and compassion. Beyond his academic contributions, he was a mentor who modeled integrity, wisdom, and genuine care for those he taught. His passing in 2023 marked the end of a remarkable life, but his legacy continues to inspire those of us fortunate to have learned from him.
One of my favorite memories of Dr. Un’s extraordinary care for students comes from his time as Dean of Religious Life at Yonsei University. He noticed that many undergraduates at one of the country’s most prestigious and expensive colleges struggled to afford even basic room and board. Deeply moved, he began fundraising to secure housing for these students. His efforts resulted in off-campus accommodations, giving them the stability they needed to continue their education. This story reflects the essence of his theology in action—responding to real human needs with love, advocacy, and practical solutions.
Even decades later, Dr. Un remained a steadfast supporter of my journey. He would send me messages of encouragement, addressing me as “Dr. Lee” or “Dean Lee,” while I continued to call him 선생님 (Sunsangnim, a term of deep respect for a teacher and elder, meaning someone to look up to and emulate), rather than addressing him as Professor or Doctor. His pride in his students, including me, was always palpable, especially as I became a faculty member at his alma mater, the Pacific School of Religion, and later the academic dean at the Iliff School of Theology. His texts, often filled with heartfelt congratulations and joy in my accomplishments, were a constant reminder of his unwavering belief in my work and potential.
Now, two years after his passing, his presence remains deeply felt. His theology of education, grounded in community and justice, continues to guide my work and the work of many others who were shaped by his vision. His legacy is not only found in the academic contributions he made but also in the countless lives he transformed through his teaching, mentorship, and care.
To my beloved 선생님, may you continue to rest in peace with your cherished spouse, Aesun.
The seeds you planted in the lives of your students and in the field of religious education continue to flourish, bearing fruit in ways that honor your remarkable life. Thank you for showing us what it means to integrate faith and justice, scholarship and compassion, teaching and love. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
For his remarkable achievements, please visit Dr. Joon Kwan Un’s profile. His work reminds us that a life dedicated to faith, justice, and education can leave an enduring legacy.
With enduring respect and love,
Boyung Lee
Professor of Practical Theology, Iliff School of Theology, Denver, CO
2021-2022 President of Religious Education Association