We rejoin the historians in what is now 19th century Korea.

In 1801 there is a determined and systematic opposition to Roman Catholicism. As one might imagine, the Koreans are more fearful of foreigners than the faith of the foreigners. Romanism has definite characteristics of a political European force. It is to be avoided at all costs. It is at this time that Chinese Catholic Tsiou dies for his faith.

By 1803 the persecution has died out, but not before 300-400 have been killed. The Church of Rome seems crushed.

Oliver's description of the various types of believers is very helpful here:

"As in every country, in all times, among the churchgoers were many who were unquestionably and wholeheartedly devout. There were also some who only half believed but who felt the odds favored those who stedfastly proclaimed their faith. Still others 'went along, with family members, friends, and neighbors. Some church members were 'rice Christians', more intent upon earthly than eternal benefits. Variations of dedication were commonplace in Korea among Shamanists, Taoists, Buddhists, and Confucianists long before (and after) the coming in of Christianity. Government officials were accustomed to half-hearted believers and did not worry about them..."

More tragedy in the peninsula. A fire wipes out Pyongyang, and in 1811 there is a rebellion in the north. Miners arise, and take Chongjin and many other towns. But they are stopped. In 1813, the same scenario rises and then falls.

The next year brings flood and famine in the south. Then typhus. Then cholera. In the cholera epidemic in seoul, 10,000 die in 10 days. How glibly I write and you read all this, but consider the ongoing tragedy of this nation...

In the royalty, 1827 sees the crown prince appointed as deputy king. Then in 1830 he dies . The grandfather of the king reigning as Hulbert goes to press with this history not only becomes king, but adds emperor to his title. But in 1898, emperor or not, he must deal with the death of his heir.

1831. The Roman Pope makes Korea a bishopric, and sends a bishop, albeit secretly. By now, a revival of Romanism has raised the number of adherents to 9000.

Then, here come the Protestants. It is 1832. An English vessel comes to trade. The King says no, thanks. Perhaps his glance at the ship's flag, which proclaims the religion of Jesus Christ, is what helps him decide so quickly. Believers Coutzlaff and Lindsay send books to the king. The king returns them. Not an auspicious beginning.

More fires and floods. A famine of nine years, another outbreak of cholera. Bodies are piled in heaps. Is there any connection between Korea's consistent rejection of God's will and these ongoing plagues?

That seems to be the case in North Korea today.