The Eulmyo Incident

A Betrayal, Followed by an Arrest Warrant

In June 1795, not long after his arrival in Joseon, Fr. Zhou Wenmo’s presence was revealed to the royal court through the betrayal of Han Yeong-ik, a recent convert to Catholicism. Upon receiving a report from State Councillor Chae Je-gong, King Jeongjo ordered an arrest warrant to be issued. The Church in Joseon soon faced the greatest crisis since its founding.

Choe In-gil Takes the Priest’s Place

After receiving word of the danger, Fr. Zhou took refuge in the home of Kang Wansuk. When government officers arrived, Choe In-gil put on the priest’s clothing and stepped forward in his place. Choe In-gil, Yun Yu-il, and Ji Hwang were arrested and subjected to brutal torture, but they never revealed the priest’s whereabouts.

A Sacrifice to Protect the Priest

The three men were arrested on 27 June 1795, and were martyred the following day. Because of their sacrifice, Fr. Zhou escaped capture and was able to lead the Church in Joseon for another six years. Their martyrdom bore witness to a faith that protected the first priest of the Church in Joseon.

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The Decision to Protect the Priest

When the arrest warrant was issued, Choe In-gil disguised himself as the priest and presented himself before the government officers. He willingly risked his own life to give Fr. Zhou time to escape. He was eventually arrested and suffered martyrdom.