The Korean Christian Church in Liliha, founded by former South Korean President Syngman Rhee, celebrated its 90th anniversary Sunday at its morning service.

The celebration included picture-taking of the congregation in front of the newly renovated church, draping a lei on the statue of Rhee, and lots of good food.

Members of the first generation of immigrants that arrived in Hawaii in 1903 and picture brides who followed were honored. They were laborers seeking to accumulate enough wealth to send back to their families in their homeland.

The first Korean church was built in 1928, a landmark at 1832 Liliha St. because of its unique architecture and the replica of the Kwang Whan Mun, the main tower gate into the ancient royal palace in Seoul. It was rebuilt in 2006 for $3.5 million after many setbacks.

Rhee, the first president of the Republic of Korea, also founded other churches in Wahiawa, Hilo and Los Angeles, a release said.