In a significant step toward global historical remembrance, South Korea has opened its first Holocaust museum in the city of Paju, near the border with North Korea. The museum, established by the Korea Israel Bible Institute (KIBI), is the first of its kind in the country dedicated solely to educating the public about the Holocaust and the history of Jewish persecution.
The newly inaugurated museum is located in Heyri Art Village, a cultural hub known for its artistic and educational institutions. Unlike most Holocaust memorials built in the West, this museum was developed by a Christian Zionist organization with a mission to deepen understanding of Jewish history and to express solidarity with the Jewish people.
The museum features a wide range of exhibitions, including detailed accounts of the Holocaust, the history of antisemitism in Europe, and the establishment of the State of Israel. It also addresses broader themes such as religious intolerance, genocide, and the importance of human dignity. Interactive displays and educational materials are presented in both Korean and English, making the museum accessible to international visitors.
The opening comes at a time of rising global concern over antisemitism and misinformation about the Holocaust. Organizers hope the museum will serve as a space not only for education but also for moral reflection—encouraging visitors to consider how historical memory can prevent hatred and violence in the present day.
This initiative marks a rare example of Holocaust commemoration in East Asia and reflects a growing interest among South Korean Christians in the Jewish roots of their faith. It also opens the door for new cultural and educational dialogue between Korea and Israel.
