Bishop Dubong Passes Away at 96, Leaving a Legacy of Joy and Gratitude

Bishop Dubong, a beloved figure in the Catholic community, passed away on April 10, 2025, at the age of 96. Known for his infectious laughter and spirit, he left a lasting impact on those around him. The news of his passing brought a wave of sadness, as many reflected on the joy he brought into their lives.

On April 11, the Diocese of Andong shared details of his final moments. Bishop Dubong suffered a stroke on April 6, but thanks to the presence of parishioners, he was quickly taken to Andong Hospital for treatment. His condition improved enough that he was moved from the ICU to a regular ward on April 10. After expressing a desire for confession, he received the sacrament from the diocesan office's priest. When asked if he felt relieved, he responded with heartfelt gratitude, saying, 'Thank you. Truly, thank you.' He even extended his hands towards the heavens, displaying his characteristic gestures.

However, by 4 PM that day, his breathing became unstable, and he lost strength. At 7 PM, prayers were offered by the bishop and priests for his passing, and he departed this world at 7:47 PM, leaving behind a final message of gratitude.

I had the privilege of meeting Bishop Dubong in December 2023, just before Christmas, at his residence in the Cultural Village of Uiseong, where he spent his later years. The entrance was marked with a sign reading 'Catholic Church Dubong.' Upon entering, I was greeted with a warm 'Hello, welcome!' followed by his signature laughter, 'Ha! Ha! Ha!' This laughter echoed throughout my two-and-a-half-hour visit, making it impossible to think of him without hearing that joyful sound.

During our interview, the most frequent sound was laughter, and the most repeated word was 'thank you.' Despite having recently suffered a femur fracture from a fall at a priest meeting in Taiwan, he expressed gratitude for not being more seriously injured and for his overall health. He entered the operating room with a smile, saying he was thankful for the care he received.

2023 marked the 70th anniversary of his ordination as a priest. Reflecting on his life, he spent 25 years in his native France before coming to Korea at the age of 25 in 1954. He served in Daejeon for 15 years before becoming the first bishop of the newly established Andong Diocese in 1969.

Bishop Dubong led the Andong Diocese for 21 years until his retirement in 1990, advocating for the needs of farmers and miners during difficult times. He was known for his dedication to pastoral work, building community centers, and standing up for the marginalized.

After retiring, he chose to live a simple life in Hangju Mountain Fortress, away from the public eye, but returned to the Cultural Village in 2004 at the request of his successor, Bishop Kwon Hyuk-joo. He became a beloved figure, even appearing on the TV show 'You Quiz on the Block,' which endeared him to many, regardless of their faith.

Bishop Dubong arrived in Korea shortly after the Korean War on December 19, 1954, and often reminisced about the warmth of the people despite the cold weather. He maintained a close friendship with Father Baek Yo-han, who also arrived in Korea with him, and they would call each other every December 19 to commemorate their arrival.

He believed that the role of a priest was to bring joy, happiness, and strength to others, and he lived this philosophy throughout his 70 years in Korea. His legacy is one of gratitude, happiness, and joy, as he often shared his secret to happiness: giving happiness to others.

During his funeral mass on April 14, Bishop Kwon Hyuk-joo expressed gratitude for Bishop Dubong's life, stating, 'Thank you for showing us the truth that living in love brings happiness.' Many share this sentiment, and we all say, 'Thank you, Bishop Dubong, for your service.'