South Korean pastor Lee Jong-rak has made it his mission to protect those who cannot protect themselves. He has set up a literal drop box for mothers to place their unwanted babies as an alternative to leaving them to die. Pastor's Lee's actions are a powerful drop of hope in response to the high abortion rate in South Korea that could make all the difference.
In March, in collaboration with Focus on the Family, the pastor's drop box story will be told in theaters in a new documentary. Portions of the proceeds will go to assist the drop box project.
The movie can now be purchased at Christianbook here.
An encore event March 16 is now available. Click here to buy tickets.
Sophie Lee of World News Group says that South Korea has one of the highest abortion rates in the world despite abortion being illegal. It can be done for around $200 and there is a significant lack of enforcement. She says there is shame and guilt associated with it that makes it a very hushed topic.
A Bioethics report from Columbia University reports that the estimated numbers in 2006 were over 10 percent of pregnant married women getting abortions (105 cases per 1,000 married women).
"In 2006, the estimated rate of induced abortion in South Korea was aged 15 to 44 years. Since this survey included only married women, it underestimates the rate of induced abortions in other groups of women, such as single women or teenagers." Columbia University
There has recently been increased government involvement trying to hinder abortions with the South Korean birthrate falling well below the level of sub-replacement.
"Now, with South Korea’s birthrate dipping to 1.19 children per woman, one of the lowest in the world, officials want more babies. In 2009, President Lee Myung-bak called for “bold” steps to increase the nation’s birthrate. The government started blaring public service announcements saying, “With abortion, you are aborting the future.” WorldMag
Replacement birthrate aside, all life is precious, and we pray this movie can help people see that in every country.