Survey Reveals Challenges in Gospel Confidence Among South Korean Church Youth

A recent study by the Pastoral Data Research Institute (PDRI) indicates that gospel confidence among South Korean middle and high school students remains below 55%. The "Korean Church Next Generation Trend 2026" report, which surveyed over 3,300 churchgoers, found that 53% of students express confidence in the gospel. Data shows a gender disparity, with 57% of male students reporting confidence compared to 48% of female students. The research highlights that family dynamics are a significant factor, as students with close parental relationships or those who participate in regular home worship reported higher levels of conviction.

The survey also highlights a persistent recovery gap in worship attendance following the COVID-19 pandemic. While adult worship participation has reached 94% of pre-pandemic levels, Sunday school attendance remains stagnant at 81%. Weekly attendance rates for youth sit at 60%, compared to 75% for adults. Despite these attendance trends, 64% of youth reported satisfaction with their church life, primarily attributing this to friendships and relationships with pastoral staff.