Han Gil Kim

Kim Hangil was born on December 3, 1950, in South Korea, the youngest child and only son of Shin Geum Ae and Kim Sang Ho—just as the Korean War began to unfold. His father passed away shortly after his birth, and he was lovingly raised by his faith-filled mother and six older sisters in the rural town of Byeolgyo. From these humble beginnings, Kim Hangil’s life became a testament to God’s grace—marked by quiet strength, deep love, and unwavering faith that carried him and his family through many hardships.

From a young age, Kim Hangil displayed a quiet diligence and a deep sense of responsibility toward his family. Though his sisters often remarked that he was naturally intelligent, it was his tireless work ethic—studying late into the night by lamplight—that truly set him apart. For him, education was not just a personal goal, but a way to honor his mother and sisters' sacrifices. That devotion carried him through, earning him a place at SungKyungKwan University, a competitive university in Seoul, where he later graduated from pharmacy school.

During his time at university, Kim Hangil's journey of faith took a significant turn when he met the late Pastor John Kim who would deeply influence his life. This mentor challenged him to grow in his faith and walk more closely with God. As he grew spiritually, Kim Hangil found himself at a crossroads—struggling between pursuing a calling into ministry or continuing with his studies in pharmacy. Ultimately, after much prayer and reflection, he decided to finish his pharmacy education, but with the guidance of his pastor, he resolved to use his vocation as a means to serve God and reach others. This decision reflected his belief that every profession, when lived with faith, could be a powerful tool for ministry.

During his time as a student, Kim Hangil met the woman who would later become his wife, Cheon Kyung Sook. Together, they set out for America with a shared vision of starting anew in New York City in 1977—seeking opportunities to build a business and, more importantly, to share their faith. Ever optimistic and hardworking, Kim Hangil pressed forward and eventually opened his own pharmacies in Queens, New York. In time, they were blessed with two daughters, Sharon and Eunice.

In 1996, Kim Hangil’s beloved wife tragically passed away from cancer at the young age of 42. The loss was overwhelming, and just two months later, his cherished mother—who had immigrated to America to live with his family—also passed away. Compounding this grief, his pharmacy businesses began to struggle. At this time, he often said he felt like Job from the Bible, as if the weight of loss was more than he could bear. In the midst of this hardship, his nephew, Choi Sung Soo, came to help the family, supporting them through the painful transition to Texas. However, through his faith, Kim Hangil was made new again, and he found hope in his new calling to be a pastor. This new direction led him to Houston Divinity School, where he earned his Master’s in Theology in 1998.

In 1999, Kim Hangil was blessed to have met Kong Miyeon, and in doing so, he found a deep and unexpected joy. They married and his beautiful wife who not only became a loving partner but also a source of great strength and encouragement. Together, they shared a common faith and a passion for ministry, and this shared vision would become the foundation of their new life. Along with his wife, Kim Hangil welcomed her three children—Peter, Joyce, and Ingrid—into his heart and family. They moved to Austin to establish Hyde Park Baptist Korean Church, where their united faith and unwavering

commitment to God's calling set the stage for a vibrant ministry. This new chapter of his life brought a renewed sense of purpose and hope, and for the next 15 years, Kim Hangil and Kong Miyeon poured their hearts into shepherding the church. Their ministry became a powerful testimony of God's grace, bringing fulfillment not only to them but also to those whose lives were touched by their compassion, leadership, and steadfast faith.

In his later years, Kim Hangil faced significant health challenges, including a diagnosis of end-stage renal disease. For the final decade of his life, he underwent dialysis, a physically demanding trial that tested him in ways he never imagined. At times, his spirit felt broken under the weight of his illness, but he never lost sight of the fact that God was with him. Even when his strength faltered, his loving wife was always by his side, reminding him of God's greatness and assuring him that He would never leave him. During this time, he grew even closer to his daughters, sharing his love more openly and frequently. He had the joy of getting to know his grandchildren, (Adele [14], Jude [12], Ben [12] Ryan [10], Ori [10], Ethan [8], and Sasha [1] ) and in these moments, he would often express how much he loved his family and how proud he was of them. Through all the hardships, Kim Hangil remained steadfast in his love for his family, and his pride in being their father never wavered. Even in his physical weakness, his spirit remained strong, a testament to his enduring faith and the love he had for his loved ones. Kim Hangil, age 74, of Austin, Texas passed away on Thursday, May 8, 2025.

Kim Hangil’s name, "One Way," was a perfect reflection of the man he became. His life was steady, focused, and deeply committed to his family, faith, and calling. Through every hardship and challenge, he remained steadfast, walking the path he believed God had set for him. His legacy is not only in the work he did or the ministries he led but also in the quiet, consistent example of faith and love he set for his daughters and all who knew him.

Though he is no longer with us, Kim Hangil’s impact endures in the lives he touched, the lessons he imparted, and the legacy of his unwavering commitment to faith and family. His journey, from the hardships of his early life in Korea to his selfless service in America, is a testament to God's grace and faithfulness. His faith, resilience, and devotion to his family will continue to inspire all of us as we carry his memory forward.