Park Family During The Korean War

 PARK FAMILY - Diana's mother's family

My mother was the 2nd child in a family of 7 members (my grandparents had 5 children).  Each of the children had distinct character traits. Kun-eemo (Keyport) was loud and bulsterous, my mom (Helen Kim) the quiet teacher-type and talented musician, Toronto eemo was the 3rd child who embodied beauty and elegance, Samchoon (John Park) was a CPA always joyful and as only male took his headship responsibilities respectfully, then the youngest was San Francisco eemo (Jinsoo Rhee) who was the carefree and silly spirit of the family.  This family immigrated from Korea to the US with in early 1970's.  They grew up in the church, loving Christ and living His joy despite challenges and hardship.  I look at my uncles and aunts and all I see are smiles and laughter...deep rooted pure, joy.

During the Korean War I've only heard two stories.  I'm documenting so that we remember.  When my grandmother shared these experiences with her grandchildren, tears of joy and gratitude poured down her face seeing God's faithfulness through it all.

(1)  Halabojee (grandpa) was a wealthy man.  When the Korean army approached his home, the family hid in the house.  Grandpa stepped outside and explained to the soldiers that he was too ill and unhealthy to serve in the army.  Grandpa went inside the house and grabbed his brother's x-rays of a broken bone as proof of being to unfit to serve.  This was the deciding factor to release or recruit my grandfather.  God's grace was prevalent in that moment as the soldiers returned the x-rays, turned around and left their house.  My grandfather was spared, did not have to leave or be separated from his family. Thanks be to God.

(2)  Also during the Korean War my mother and her family had to escape and travel to cross boundry lines.  In the dark of night, my grandfather and grandmother gathered their 5 young children and belongings and left the house.  They had to travel along the riverside beach to reach a bridge to get to the other side for safety.  14 feet putting one foot in front of the other, trying not to make a sound or be noticed, they finally reach the bridge and the soldier guards asked "where are you coming from?"  My grandfather responds saying, "we came from our home, walked along the riverside beach so we can cross this bridge."  The guard responds, "How?!?!  This beach is covered with land mine explosives!"  "I just told my family to be quiet and pray to God," grandpa replies.  In absolute amazement and thanksgiving, all families members were able to cross the bridge safely knowing God is with them and hears their prayers.  Thanks be to God.

Halmonee & Halabjee

Halmonee's 95th Birthday!