I was born in South Korea and raised in the Catholic faith, where I began serving at the altar from a young age. Though the idea of priesthood first took root in childhood, I pursued an academic path in mathematics, completing advanced studies in the U.S. and later teaching and conducting research at the University of Hokkaido, Yale University, and Nanyang Technological University. Along the way, the witness of missionary priests and the hospitality of Catholic communities deepened my faith and awakened in me a desire to respond more fully to God’s call, which eventually led me to the Benedictine way of life.

During my time in monastic life, I experienced the profound hunger people have for the sacraments, which clarified my own vocation and strengthened my longing to serve as a priest. Drawn by its strong reputation and vibrant, diverse community, I was led to Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary. Outside of prayer and study, I enjoy contemplative reading and exploring the relationship between faith and science.