The purpose of this thesis is to relate literacy (nonformal education) to social development. It begins with a theoretical discussion on literacy and social development and uses Paulo Freire's dialogical framework to determine the contribution literacy can make. In using the context of a South Korean literacy campaign, this work covers the historical development of the Korean alphabet and initiation of Hangeul literacy. It examines the arrival of Christian missionaries in Korea and how they used literacy to maximise conversion and Church establishment. Literacy became the Christian Church's mission and this is examined in the light of the Korean struggle for independence during the Japanese occupation. The impact of literacy on social development in political, economic and social sectors is evaluated. The paper discusses the problem of literacy and social development in developing nations and suggests some strategies for the society and Church. / Thesis (M.Th.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2005.