Blessed Iacobus Won Sibo

Biography

Blessed Iacobus Won Sibo, also known as Jacob, was a layman martyr in the apostolic vicariate of Korea. He was born in 1730 in Hongju, Chungcheong-do, South Korea. Little is known about his early life and personal background.

Blessed Iacobus Won Sibo lived during a time of intense persecution against Christians in Korea. Despite the dangers, he remained steadfast in his faith and actively participated in the clandestine Catholic community. He dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel and supporting the growing Catholic Church in Korea.

On April 3, 1799, in Cheongju, Chungcheong-do, Blessed Iacobus Won Sibo was arrested and imprisoned for his unwavering commitment to his Catholic beliefs. Despite enduring harsh interrogations and brutal torture, he refused to renounce his faith. His unyielding faith and courage in the face of persecution inspired many others.

Blessed Iacobus Won Sibo, along with his fellow Korean Martyrs, was recognized for his heroic witness and sacrifice for the Catholic faith. Their martyrdom played a significant role in the growth of the Church in Korea, as they became powerful symbols of resistance against religious oppression.

On February 7, 2014, Pope Francis issued a decree recognizing the martyrdom of Blessed Iacobus Won Sibo and his companions. They were beatified on August 15, 2014, in a ceremony presided over by Pope Francis himself.

Today, Blessed Iacobus Won Sibo is venerated as one of the Martyrs of Korea, commemorated on April 3. His life serves as a shining example of faith, resilience, and unwavering commitment to Christ. As a layman martyr, he inspires believers to live out their faith courageously, even in the face of adversity.

The legacy of Blessed Iacobus Won Sibo continues to inspire many Catholics in Korea and around the world. His steadfast dedication to the Catholic faith and his ultimate sacrifice in martyrdom make him a treasured figure in the history of the Church in Korea.