Countdown to the Cheonwon Temple Opening: The Han River Miracle

Emerging from post-war devastation, South Korea became a global industrial and cultural powerhouse. Our religious movement led by Father and Mother Moon contributed significantly to this remarkable transformation.

After the Korean War (1950–1953), South Korea rose from devastation to become an economic and cultural powerhouse. Strategic industrial policies focusing on export-driven growth in sectors like electronics, shipbuilding, and automobiles spurred the “Miracle on the Han River.” Companies like Samsung and Hyundai emerged as global leaders, symbolising South Korea’s industrial success.

Culturally, South Korea balanced modernisation with tradition. The late 20th century saw the rise of Hallyu (the “Korean Wave“), exporting Korean music, film, and drama globally. Education and innovation flourished.

The religious movement led by Father and Mother Moon also contributed to South Korea’s development. The Tongil Group, a conglomerate founded by the movement, supported the industrial surge through investments in manufacturing and construction, creating jobs and bolstering the economy. Companies like Ilhwa played a role in promoting traditional Korean products, such as ginseng.

Culturally, the movement enhanced Korea‘s soft power through initiatives like the Little Angels children’s folk ballet and Universal Ballet, showcasing Korean traditions and blending them with global art forms. Global outreach efforts, including peace rallies and interfaith dialogues, incorporated Korean cultural elements, introducing audiences worldwide to Korea’s heritage.

Sun Moon University is a unique institution in South Korea’s educational landscape combining academic quality with a strong commitment to fostering global peace, ethical leadership, and cross-cultural understanding.

In the movement’s teachings, Korea is positioned as a spiritual and cultural centre. In fact, the Divine Principle, a key part of the message of Father and Mother Moon, offers profound insights into the deeper causal dimension behind the amazing Han River miracle, South Korea’s remarkable transformation. 

South Korean democracy is stable yet vibrant, marked by dynamic public participation, robust debate, and occasional political contention.