The history of the Catholic University of Korea is closely tied to the introduction of Catholicism into Joseon, a society that regarded Confucian ideals as its highest value. In the late 18th century, scholars of the Silhak movement began to study Catholicism—then called “Western Learning”—as an academic pursuit, forming faith communities and devoting themselves to the recruitment and training of clergy.

Despite continuous persecution, three young boys—Kim Dae-geon, Choi Yang-eop, and Choi Bang-ji—were sent to Macau in 1836 to study for the priesthood. Among them, St. Andrew Kim Tae-gon was ordained in Shanghai in 1845, returned to Korea, and was soon martyred.

As persecution persisted within Korea, another three boys were selected in 1854 and sent to Penang, Malaysia, to continue their studies. At the same time, efforts to train clergy and introduce Western-style education were begun in various parts of the country. Finally, in 1855, St. Joseph’s Seminary was established in Baeron, Jecheon, under the leadership of Father Maistre, with St. Joseph as its patron.

The seminary offered instruction in classical Chinese, Latin, philosophy, and theology, embodying the modern humanistic spirit of Western education. This institution, St. Joseph’s Seminary, stands as the origin and foundation of today’s Catholic University of Korea.