Sahmyook Sarang Shop, affectionately referred to as the “Mother of Sahmyook University International Students,” has made a generous contribution of 61.25 million won to support scholarships at Sahmyook University. This brings the total donations from Sahmyook Sarang Shop to an impressive 500 million won.

Managed by the wives of Sahmyook University faculty, Sahmyook Sarang Shop channels all proceeds from the sale of donated goods into scholarships for international students. The organization also consistently organizes fundraising events to bolster these efforts.

International students often face challenges accessing financial support that domestic students enjoy, such as national scholarships. This is particularly true for those hailing from impoverished or conflict-affected nations, where family support for tuition and living costs is often limited.

Since its inception, Sahmyook Sarang Shop has made significant impacts: in 2020, they supported 13 students with 13.5 million won; in 2021, 25 students received 40 million won; in 2022, 60 students benefited from 74 million won; and in 2023, 36 students received 51.85 million won. In total, over 180 international students have accessed more than 200 million won in scholarships.

As news of their work spreads, support from various donors, local churches, and alumni overseas has poured in. For example, the Ansoloy Flute Ensemble raised 10 million won during their 20th anniversary concert in June, while members of the Irvine Church in the United States contributed 5.3 million won through Sahmyook Sarang Shop.

One notable scholarship recipient, Dr. Eliazal Penitent, now serves as an assistant professor in the Biology Department at Mountain View University in the Philippines. Another recipient, Dr. Chulmanbayar, made history as the first Mongolian to earn a Ph.D. in Theology from the Seventh-day Adventist Church and is now engaged in pastoral work in his homeland.

Among the new scholarship recipients is Charles Yuppie Desbordes from Liberia, who is pursuing a combined master’s and doctoral program in Addiction Science. He dreams of returning home after graduation to help those affected by addiction issues.

Joseph Janu, a Ph.D. student in Theology from India, shared his thoughts: “Our goal as international students is to study diligently at Sahmyook University and learn how to serve, so we can bring that mission back to our communities. We are immensely grateful for the love and support from Sahmyook Sarang Shop and all our donors.”

Cho Seunghee, the chairwoman and wife of President Je Haejong, expressed pride in the students’ perseverance: “I admire the determination of our students who are pursuing their dreams despite challenges. We remain committed to supporting your educational journeys, and I extend heartfelt thanks to all the donors who stand with us.”