David Jang

Dr. David Jang is the founder of Olivet University and has dedicated his life to the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the advancement of God’s Kingdom. From the early years of his ministry, he worked to reach people in difficult and restricted areas, first by walking long distances and later by utilizing digital platforms to share the message more broadly. His vision for Olivet University was to create a place where disciples and leaders could be trained to live out the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19) with faith and perseverance.

David Jang was born in 1949 and pursued his education with outstanding commitment. He earned both a Bachelor of Theology and a Master of Divinity at Hanshin University. Later, he obtained a Master of Arts in Communications from Yonsei University and completed his Ph.D. in Public Administration of Social Welfare at Dankook University. Along the way, he was guided by an American missionary known for his contributions to mission strategy and a Korean church historian and missionary who played a role in the founding of Olivet University Korea.

In 2004, he established Olivet University in a small basement in San Francisco. David chose the city for its diversity, which continues to be reflected in the student body and faculty today. What began as a theological seminary soon expanded into schools of music, journalism, art and design, technology, and later added business and language education. The university relocated in 2005 to the former UC Berkeley Downtown Extension Campus, which provided the space and resources for its growth. By 2009, it achieved accreditation from the Association for Biblical Higher Education. As International President, he expanded Olivet’s mission globally and also served on the North American Council of the World Evangelical Alliance.

His work also reached into Christian media. He founded Christian Today, Christian Daily Korea, and Christianity Daily International, while also being part of the founding team of The Christian Post. Christian Daily International received recognition from the Evangelical Press Association in 2024 and 2025 for its journalistic excellence. He also serves as President of the Holy Bible Society, advancing the accessibility of Scripture in mission areas through digital technology.

In addition to education and media, Dr. Jang established Apostolos Missions, as well as more than ten other mission organizations dedicated to evangelism and discipleship. He also founded Diakonos, a fellowship of deacons, and encouraged both direct mission service and business as means of spreading the gospel. His leadership extended further when he became president of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in Korea.

Generosity has always been a hallmark of his life. After earning his doctorate, he founded a church and gave away all its assets, choosing instead to support students and families in need. Guided by 2 Corinthians 8:9, he has consistently emphasized humility, sacrifice, and service to the poor.

He is a husband, father of two sons, and grandfather to his beloved granddaughters. In his personal time, he enjoys golf, swimming, tennis, and reading. David Jang continues to guide, teach, and mentor, remaining steadfast in his devotion to Christ and the church's mission.