Theresa Kim Hwa-young

Many South Korean Catholics take part in a "prayer for democracy" organised by the Association of Catholic Priests for Justice. For the group, "The elections were manipulated; the president should repent and order an investigation."

The faithful hope Francis will appoint a new Korean cardinal. In a petition to the pope, they call on him to choose a pastor who "can become a friend of the poor and marginalised," a "leader for difficult times".

At least 5,000 priests, nuns and lay people take part in fresh demonstrations against NIS interference. Several official Church organisations join citizens in the fight for freedom and rights. The intelligence agency is a "dangerous organisation" and a "threat to democracy".

The Catholic Church sponsors a number of initiatives to raise awareness about the plight of exiles. They include a spiritual retreat, the opening of a centre to help their integration and a rally against repatriation.

The Catholic organization has already sent 250 thousand dollars to the areas affected by drought and refugee emergency, but is launching fundraising across the country to do more. "Over 12 million people could die of hunger. We must act now."

The reduction of the school week raises concerns. On Saturdays, many children do not eat because their parents are at work. Junk food becomes a major staple on the table, and students engage less in physical activity.

A North Korean delegation flew to the Chinese capital and met with the communist leaders : declarations of friendship (customary) and updates on more military provocations. Which according to a source "are ready".

China does not hide its disappointment in the (failed) North Korean missile launch. Border officials report a change of policy towards refugees fleeing the country to escape starvation, hitherto regarded as economic migrants. Full adherence to UN condemnation, with the strongest terms compared to a similar resolution in 2009.

In conjunction with the Summit on disarmament, the Korean major religions come together to propose a more ethical and ecological future rather than one based on nuclear energy: "We choose life."

South Koreans are afflicted by materialism, selfishness and social autism. Never before has humanity enjoyed such "unprecedented material affluence," but what has it brought? The destruction of "harmony among ourselves and with nature." In an appeal for the upcoming elections, the bishops call on voters to choose wisely "people who are ready to serve the nation".

Christian delegations from across the divide meet in Kaesong to pray together for the unity of the peninsula. Hope in a new season of trust and future reconciliation is rekindled.

The construction of a naval base on Jeju Island remains controversial, and locals reject its necessity. Catholic religious institutes celebrate large Mass, demand the release of a Catholic priest and a Protestant pastor arrested for trying to stop construction.