A new photo-based book documenting the life and legacy of early Protestant missionary Henry G. Appenzeller has been published to mark the 140th anniversary of Pai Chai Academy, one of Korea’s earliest modern schools, according to reporting by Christian Daily Korea.
The book, Henry G. Appenzeller Through Photographs, was released by the Appenzeller Memorial Foundation and traces the missionary’s work in Korea from his arrival in 1885 until his death in 1902, using more than 100 historical photographs. It was produced primarily for distribution to incoming students at Pai Chai High School, founded by Appenzeller, but is also intended as a broader educational resource.
Appenzeller, a U.S. Methodist missionary, is widely regarded as a pioneer of modern education and Protestant mission work in Korea. He founded Pai Chai Academy and later Jeongdong Methodist Church, playing a key role in shaping early Christian education during the late Joseon period.
The book was written and edited by Kim Nak-hwan, secretary general of the Appenzeller Memorial Foundation and a longtime researcher of Appenzeller’s life and thought. Kim has previously published several academic works on the missionary.
In an interview with Christian Daily Korea, Kim said the goal of the publication was to help readers understand Appenzeller’s faith, character and way of life, and to encourage future generations to embody similar values.
“It doesn’t necessarily mean becoming missionaries,” Kim said. “But we hope future leaders will live with the same spirit.”
According to the foundation, the book is structured chronologically, beginning with Appenzeller’s arrival in Korea and the historical context of the period, followed by chapters on the founding of Pai Chai Academy and Jeongdong Church, missionaries and Koreans who worked alongside him, and Appenzeller’s death.
The book also documents Appenzeller’s influence on prominent Korean figures, including Syngman Rhee, Korea’s first president, and several leaders in medicine, education and the independence movement who were educated at Pai Chai or worked closely with him.
Kim said many early Korean Christians who later became pastors and leaders were influenced by Appenzeller’s example, choosing lives of faith rather than personal advancement.
A notable feature of the book is its focus on photographs, including images taken by Appenzeller himself. The missionary documented Korean landscapes, architecture and religious sites, often recording dates and descriptions. Kim said the photographs reflect Appenzeller’s respect and affection for Korean people and culture.
In reviewing the images, Kim noted that Appenzeller often appeared at the back of group photographs, even in settings where he was the central figure, such as Pai Chai Academy or Jeongdong Church.
“From the photographs, he appears to have been deeply humble,” Kim said, adding that Appenzeller consistently allowed others to take prominent roles.
The Appenzeller Memorial Foundation said the publication was made possible after years of collecting archival materials and photographs. Planning for the book began ahead of Pai Chai Academy’s 140th anniversary.
Leaders from academic and church circles welcomed the book’s release. Pai Chai University President Kim Uk said the volume connects the school’s historical roots with its future mission, while retired Methodist pastor Choi Yi-woo described the book as a reminder of Christian identity and commitment.
The foundation said an expanded edition of the book is planned for release in the coming months, along with additional publications, including translations of Appenzeller’s financial reports, which Kim said provide insight into early missionary life and accountability.
The expanded edition is expected to be released nationwide through bookstores in this month.
