Kil Sŏn-chu converted to Christianity in 1897, after recognizing the dire state of Korea and claiming to have experienced a mysterious encounter with God during extended prayer.

He was also closely involved in organizing the revival's activities, helping to coordinate prayer meetings, Bible studies, and other events that brought together large crowds of believers.

[6] On Sunday, January 6, 1907, foreign and Korean Christians gathered at Jangdaehyun for an evening revival service during which participants perceived the holy spirit to move throughout the congregation resulting in a chain reaction of public repentance, starting with Kil.[spelling?]

The organization promoted education, social reform, and Christian values, which resonated with many Koreans who were looking for ways to challenge Japanese colonial rule and assert their national identity.

[8] Through his leadership and activism, Kil Sŏn-chu played a pivotal role in shaping this legacy, leaving an indelible mark on Korean history and culture[according to whom?].

He worked to mobilize Koreans to participate in the protests, using his skills as a speaker and organizer to spread the message of the movement and advocate for nonviolent resistance and a peaceful transition to independence.

Lee Ki-bark states, "The success of the movement depended heavily on the work of the student organizations, which were often guided by intellectuals and public figures" like Kil.[10][spelling?]

He helped coordinate ongoing protests and resistance efforts, and worked tirelessly to keep the movement alive in the face of repression by the Japanese colonial authorities.