Former Salvation Army Youth Pastor Accused of Sexual Abuse Spotted at Children’s Art Studio

John Kim, a former youth pastor at the Salvation Army Mayfair Community Church in Chicago, has been accused of sexually abusing two women as minors. The women, Ellen Kim and Catherine Park, have now expressed outrage after learning that Kim was recently photographed at Bunny Ears Art House, a new children’s art studio in Lincoln Square. The studio, which received a $183,439 community development grant from the city, has raised concerns about the safety of its young patrons.

Kim was convicted of aggravated battery and pleaded guilty to battery charges in 2023 after being charged with three counts of criminal sexual abuse of a minor. He received two years of probation and was ordered to complete a sex offender evaluation program. Despite the conviction, the aggravated sexual abuse charges were dismissed, leaving some victims feeling that justice was not fully served.

Ellen Kim, who is not related to Kim, emphasized that the primary goal of the victims was to have Kim placed on the sex offender registry, which would have provided legal protection for children. The recent photo of Kim at the art studio has reignited fears that such safeguards may not be in place, leaving children vulnerable.

The women have reached out to Ald. Matt Martin (47th) and CBS 2, prompting the city to investigate the business application and the use of public funds. Ald. Martin has requested a thorough review of the business’s license and application for city resources to determine if any failures occurred in the grant approval process.

The case has sparked questions about the responsibilities of local governments in ensuring the safety of children in community spaces. As the city examines the situation, the community awaits clarity on how to protect its youngest members.

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