Biography
Elisabeth Chong Chong-hye
About Elisabeth Chong Chong-hye
Elisabeth Chong Chong-hye was born at Majae in Gwangju, Gyeonggi Province, in 1797. Her father, Augustine Chong Yak-jong, and older brother Charles Chong Chol-sang died during the persecution of 1801. Elisabeth was released with the surviving members of her family and lived at Majae.
She helped support the household through sewing and weaving. When her brother Paul Chong Ha-sang established a home in Seoul, Elisabeth and her mother joined him. She helped care for missionaries and prepared Catholics to receive the sacraments.
During the persecution of 1839, Elisabeth helped provide food and clothing for Catholics in need, including prisoners. After her own arrest, she continued encouraging imprisoned Catholics and helping provide for them.
She refused to deny her faith despite severe punishment and was executed outside Seoul’s Small West Gate on December 29, 1839.
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