Deliverance and submission

By Kelly H. Chong

Book Description

In the bustling metropolis of Seoul, a remarkable spiritual phenomenon unfolds as middle-class women embrace evangelical Protestant faith with extraordinary fervor. Kelly H. Chong ventures into this vibrant religious landscape to uncover the deeper currents driving women's passionate engagement with traditional Christian beliefs.

Through careful ethnographic research, this exploration reveals the complex interplay between gender, spirituality, and cultural transformation in contemporary South Korea. Chong examines why women from educated, affluent backgrounds are drawn to religious movements that emphasize traditional values, creating a fascinating paradox within modern Korean society.

The investigation goes beyond surface observations to probe the personal meanings these women discover in their faith journeys. Their stories illuminate broader questions about how individuals navigate between personal autonomy and spiritual submission, between modern aspirations and ancient teachings.

This scholarly yet accessible work offers valuable insights for anyone seeking to understand the global appeal of traditional religious movements in contemporary settings. Chong's research sheds light on the universal human search for meaning, community, and spiritual fulfillment, while revealing how cultural context shapes religious expression.

The book provides a thoughtful examination of how women construct identity and purpose within religious frameworks, offering perspectives that extend far beyond Korea's borders to address fundamental questions about faith, gender, and spiritual seeking in the modern world.