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The Leadership of Pope Leo XIV and the Life of Kim Jang-ha: The Essence of a True Elder

 

The Leadership of Pope Leo XIV and the Life of Kim Jang-ha: The Essence of a True Elder

With the recent election of Pope Leo XIV, the world holds high hopes for his leadership and direction. His appointment signifies more than just a shift in religious authority—it offers a renewed interpretation of what leadership should look like in today’s world. In this light, it becomes ever more meaningful to reflect upon the life of Kim Jang-ha, a Korean elder whose quiet dedication left a lasting mark on his community. Though the two men hail from different backgrounds and historical contexts, their examples of leadership continue to resonate with modern society.

1. Pope Leo XIV: Responsibility Toward Society

Since assuming his role, Pope Leo XIV has garnered attention for emphasizing a leadership that extends beyond doctrinal fidelity. He advocates for the Church’s responsibility in addressing poverty and inequality across the globe, while maintaining financial independence. His commitment lies in bringing about tangible change for the marginalized, and upholding the dignity of all people.

His style of leadership defies the conventional notion of hierarchical authority—it demands a deeply human and actionable posture. His words and actions reveal a consistent effort to confront the world’s issues not only as a spiritual guide, but as a moral elder who shoulders responsibility for society’s wellbeing.

A still cut from the documentary film <Adult Kim Jang-ha>


2. The Life of Kim Jang-ha: The Integrity of a Life Devoted to Sharing

Kim Jang-ha exemplified how one individual's consistent actions could ripple through an entire society. For sixty years, he operated a small traditional medicine clinic in Jinju, South Korea—not to accumulate wealth, but to give back. He channeled his earnings into scholarships and community service. His guiding philosophy was simple: “Money is like manure. If you pile it up, it stinks; but if you spread it, it becomes fertilizer.”

His legacy is not one of speeches, but of action. Hundreds of young students were given the gift of education through his support. His life was a fulfillment of civic responsibility—not for recognition or power, but out of love for his community.

3. Pope Leo XIV and Kim Jang-ha: Elders Across Time and Borders

What unites Pope Leo XIV and Kim Jang-ha is their shared sense of duty. Both leaders transcended the expectations of their roles and chose to influence society for the better. Pope Leo strives to dismantle systemic injustice on a global scale. Meanwhile, Kim Jang-ha quietly revolutionized his town, sowing the seeds of change over generations.

Though one operates from the seat of the Vatican and the other from a humble pharmacy in a Korean town, their core mission is the same—to lead with authenticity, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the greater good.

poster, from the documentary film <Adult Kim Jang-ha>



4. What It Means to Be an Elder: Practice Over Prestige

What defines a true elder? Pope Leo XIV exemplifies leadership that doesn’t cling to titles or rites, but rather seeks out the path of service. He is determined to propose practical solutions to the political, economic, and social issues of our time.

Kim Jang-ha also lived this principle. His scholarships were more than financial aid—they were seeds of hope and transformation. The recipients of his generosity continue his work, carrying his values into their own communities.

5. Conclusion: Beyond Elderhood—Toward Transformational Leadership

Though arising from vastly different contexts, the leadership of Pope Leo XIV and Kim Jang-ha is rooted in the same soil. As times change, the need for wise and selfless leaders remains constant. These are leaders who value action over rhetoric, impact over image, and service over self.

Now, more than ever, we must reflect on what it means to lead with moral clarity and compassion. These two figures have shown us the way forward—not through force or fame, but through quiet, consistent dedication to others. Their examples are more than history—they are maps for building a more just and humane world.

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