The area comprises roughly two-thirds of the global population -- predominantly Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, animist, Jewish or atheist -- and 55 countries considered the poorest and least evangelized. Several governments there, particularly Middle Eastern Islamic nations, prohibit Christian aid work and arrest or deport missionaries.
The hostage standoff shows how badly guidelines are needed, Oh said. He feels his government is "too conservative" in assessing potential risks, but acknowledges the church made mistakes.
"It was not a mistake to help Afghans in need, but it was a mistake not to consider security. We are sorry," he said in an interview. "Church leaders are reconsidering our missionary work."
Kim He-jung, a 27-year-old attending services at the Yoido church, said she wrote a will before traveling to Kazakhstan this year on a church trip.
"I have received love from God and want to share it. I am ready to sacrifice myself," she said.
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