In Suk Cha

Professor Emeritus In Suk Cha, who served as the nation’s top scholar, diplomat, and administrator, and whose research in the field of philosophy significantly contributed to the democracy in Korea for over five decades, passed away peacefully at home in the comfort of his family on November 22, 2021. He was 88.

Professor In Suk Cha was born to Dr. Nam Soo Cha and Sara Kim, who taught him Christian values and hard work, a modest lifestyle, and self-discipline. He attended Seoul National University in Korea for his undergraduate study and received his doctoral degree in philosophy from the University of Freiburg in Germany. He later became a professor of philosophy and UNESCO Chair in Philosophy for Democracy Education at Seoul National University. He also served as Secretary-General of the Korean National Commission to UNESCO.

He was a classical music lover and often traveled to Europe to attend classical concerts. He once attended a concert at the Erlenbad Monastery where he listened to St. Matthew Passion by Johann Sebastian Bach. When the sound of the vocalists and instruments blended in perfect harmony and filled the entire sanctuary, he thought to himself, “Listening to music always gives me a chance to take a moment of reflection on myself and its relation to the outside world.”

He married a classical violinist and a professor at Seoul National University, Hai Eun Hyun. Their academic disciplines were different, but they united in their love of classical music. When Hai Eun and her chamber orchestra performed Easter concerts, In Suk happily provided spiritual and financial support as well as his artistic inspiration for programming.

In Suk’s grandson, Benjamin remembers him as an independent and deep thinker. He never ceases to think over things profoundly, always going after the origin of each event in the surrounding. In Suk’s other grandson, Hyun remembers him by his compassion and how he taught him not to rush anything but behave thoughtfully and carefully.

He is survived by his wife Hai Eun, their children Thomas and his wife Christine, Sang Yup, Keum Hwa and her husband DongKuk. Also, surviving are his grandchildren Benjamin, Lauren, Hyun Seung, Hyun, and Hyo.

The Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 27 at 10:00 AM at West Side Presbyterian Church, Ridgewood. Interment to follow at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus.

In lieu of flowers, donations to West Side Presbyterian Church would be greatly appreciated.