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Ko Son

SOUNG KO

[Affiliation]

Department of Human Sciences and Cultural Studies Faculty of Human Sciences and Cultural Studies

[job title]
Director of Religious Affairs (Chapel Center Director), Associate Professor

[degree]
Master's degree (Theology)

profile	Graduated from Ryukoku University, Faculty of International Culture and Tokyo Union Theological Seminary, Faculty of Theology. Master of Divinity from McCormick Theological Seminary (USA) Pastor of Korean Christian Church in Japan Part-time lecturer at Nagoya Gakuin University from 2021 to 2025. 2023-2026 Gifu Prison Chaplain
Affiliated academic societies, associations, committees, etc.	Meiji Gakuin University Institute for Christian Studies (Collaborating Researcher) "Asian Christian Plurality" Study Group (Member) Asian Religious Peace Studies Association (Member)
Specialization	Practical Theology Christian education religious thought Interreligious dialogue
Research content and themes of interest	This research examines the dynamics of "atmosphere" that guide people's judgments and actions in modern society, particularly in Japanese society, from the perspective of restoring religiosity, through biblical-based Christian thought. It also explores how religious traditions can support human lifestyles and ethical values in contemporary society.
What makes the research interesting?	Religion and philosophy are not merely knowledge; they are deeply intertwined with the question of how people should live. Using Christian thought as a central framework, we explore the role and meaning of religion in modern society, and together with students, we investigate fundamental questions such as "What does it mean to be human?", "Why do people live?", and "What should we judge, choose, and act towards?" while considering the current era.
Main subjects	Introduction to Christianity 1 Introduction to Christianity 2 • Biblical studies Religion and ideology
Achievements in social contribution and community cooperation	February 2016 - March 2026 Senior Pastor of Gifu Church, Korean Christian Church in Japan The church was utilized as a space open to the local community, engaging with the community through activities such as holding Christmas charity concerts, collaborating with high school choirs, and participating in local cultural exchange activities. Furthermore, dialogue and exchange with other religions, including Buddhism, were also pursued within the community. May 2023 - March 2026 Gifu Prison Chaplain I engaged in religious instruction activities, such as providing faith counseling to inmates, assisting with worship services and religious events, and focused on providing support centered on mental health care.

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