Early Life and Education
David Jang was born in 1949 and pursued theological education with dedication. He completed a Bachelor of Theology and a Master of Divinity from Hanshin University, recognized as Korea’s foremost Presbyterian seminary His studies extended further with a Master of Arts in Communications from Yonsei University, a Christian research university in Seoul. He later achieved a Ph D in Public Administration of Social Welfare from Dankook University, one of Korea’s respected private universities.
During his academic years, he was mentored by leaders who shaped his view of mission and education. One was an American missionary who established the U.S. Center for World Mission Another was a Korean historian and missionary leader who later founded Olivet University Korea Their teaching and guidance helped him develop a balanced perspective on global mission and church history.
Founding Olivet University, San Francisco
In 2004, he founded Olivet University in a small basement in downtown San Francisco David chose the city for its rich diversity, which is reflected in the Olivet student body and faculty.
From its beginning, he set the vision of Olivet to serve global mission needs Although it started as a theological seminary, the school soon expanded into other areas of study, adding schools of Music, Journalism, Art & Design, and Technology During this time, he invited a mission strategist to join the faculty That person later brought in local scholars who still contribute to Olivet’s programs today.
In 2005, the university relocated to the former UC Berkeley Downtown Extension Campus, which provided facilities well-suited for its growth. By 2006, he entrusted the presidency to another Christian educator while assuming the role of International President, where he directed worldwide outreach and mission development.
Under his leadership, Olivet University reached new milestones In 2009, it received accreditation from the Association for Biblical Higher Education. The university also launched schools of Business and Language Education, expanded to doctoral programs, and strengthened its partnerships In 2007, Dr Jang became a member of the North American Council of the World Evangelical Alliance. His vision for training men and women for mission continues to shape Olivet’s mission and growth today
Founder of Christian Media Outlets
In addition to education, he has also played a significant role in Christian media He founded Christian Today, Christian Daily Korea, and Christianity Daily International, where he continues to serve as founder and senior advisor David also contributed as a founding team member and senior advisor of The Christian Post.
Recognized for Journalistic Excellence
Christian Daily International has received recognition for its achievements in journalism. In 2025, it earned second place in the Evangelical Press Association’s Award of Excellence for Newspaper/Online News This award highlighted excellence in writing, editorial standards, design, and navigation. In 2024, the same outlet also earned second place in the EPA’s “Best in Class” awards These awards reflected its consistent commitment to strong and trustworthy Christian reporting.
Leadership Roles
He has served in many leadership positions As President of the Holy Bible Society, he directed projects to expand access to the Bible through digital technology, particularly in unreached areas.
He served on the North American Council of the World Evangelical Alliance for 11 years, contributing to evangelical unity and mission strategy. Dr. Jang also became the 88th President of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Korea, where he held a significant leadership role within the denomination.
He also founded Apostolos Missions, a campus-based mission group, along with 11 specialized mission organizations focused on evangelism and discipleship. In addition, he established Diakonos, a fellowship of deacons He encouraged churches to concentrate on frontline missions and also supported the training of back-mission workers, often referred to as business as missions, to strengthen mission work worldwide. Today, he continues to teach, mentor students, provide Biblical insights, and counsel families in Christ
A Life of Giving
After completing his doctorate, he founded a church but later donated all of its assets Since then, he has devoted himself to providing financial support to underprivileged students and families His life has been guided by the words of 2 Corinthians 8:9, which describe the humility and sacrifice of Christ. David believes it is the duty of Christians to follow this example, living with humility and giving generously to those in need
Personal Life
He is a husband, father of two sons, and grandfather to his beloved granddaughters In his personal life, he enjoys golf, swimming, tennis, and reading. These activities provide balance alongside his dedication to ministry and leadership
David Jang’s life reflects devotion to mission, education, leadership, and service. Through Olivet University, Christian media, and mission organizations, he has helped raise leaders, strengthen
churches, and advance the Gospel His journey shows humility and perseverance, and David continues to dedicate his life to serving Christ and others.
