Biography
Peter Kwon Tug-in
About Peter Kwon Tug-in
Peter Kwon Tug-in grew up in a Catholic family and lost both parents while young. After marrying, he lived for a time with his brother, who sold medicines. He later established a separate household and made religious medals and other devotional objects for sale.
The bishops’ conference account identifies crucifixes among his products. Their sale supported his livelihood and contributed to church expenses.
Peter prayed regularly and helped others. After Jacques Chastan entered Korea, Peter received the priest in his home. He was arrested in January 1839 with members of his family and Rosa Kim No-sa. He underwent severe questioning and punishment at the police and criminal courts.
His wife and brother-in-law renounced their faith and were released. Peter sent a letter urging them to reconsider. He refused to provide the authorities with names of other Catholics. The bishops’ conference account identifies the manufacture and sale of religious objects as one reason for his death sentence.
He was executed with eight other Catholics outside Seoul’s Small West Gate on May 24, 1839.
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