The PROK was the fruit of a movement to reform the Presbyterian Church to create a true church of Jesus Christ, setting aside the secular elements, authoritarianism, and rigid dogmatism so deeply rooted in the Korean Presbyterian Church. Since 1953, the PROK has continued to develop a prophetic stance in its understanding of the church and its mission in society.

Seeking to go beyond the narrow, traditional concept of mission, the PROK is committed to participating in Missio Dei, God's salvation work in society and history. A diverse denomination in its characteristics, the PROK upholds the spiritual importance of dialogue, engagement, diversity, and reconciliation. The PROK has been serving the least and the marginalized, the "Minjung", such as the disabled, farmers, the elderly, orphans, undocumented migrant workers, homeless teenagers, sex workers, and, particularly since the implosion of the national economy, the unemployed and their families. The PROK has been a prophetic voice for democratization, human rights, and reunification, protesting against military dictatorship government. The PROK took the initiative in sending humanitarian food aid, as well as funds, equipment and machinery to North Korea.

The PROK, despite its relatively small size, has assumed the role of salt and light in a difficult history and will continue this role in the future.

The PROK has developed an enduring commitment to ecumenism, with active membership in the National Council of Churches in Korea, Christian Conference of Asia, World Council of Churches, and World Alliance of Reformed Churches and with strong partnership with many churches aroud the world. The PROK was the first Presbyterian Church denomination to ordain women as elders in 1956 and as ministers in 1974, believing that God calls both women and men to ministry. This tradition was continued when the PROK elected a woman elder as the Lay Vice-Moderator of the 83rd General Assembly in 1998, a first in Korean Presbyterian history. Recognizing that sectarianism is a serious problem facing the whole Presbyterian Church, the PROK has led the dialogue among Presbyterian denominations which has resulted in the formation of the Council of Presbyterian Churches.

As we approach the 21st century, the PROK is focusing on articulating future goals for church evangelism and mission. While maintaining its commitment to peace and justice, the PROK is responding to the needs of a changing South Korea that is continuing its journey of democratization. The PROK continues to take a prominent lead in asking again the question of how to be a Christian in today's world.