This study aims at critically reviewing the studies on literacy in Korea as there are two paradigms in the studies: one, ‘Frank Laubach Paradigm’ and the other, ‘Paulo Freire Paradigm’ in the studies of literacy. Laubach was a champion of literacy campaigns in international level as a way of biblical mission, while Freire was a well known figure in adult literacy to pursue transformative social change in international level. Reviewing the studies on literacy in Korea with regards of definition, functions, and methods in practice, it seems that the studies on literacy in Korea reflects upon quite typical functionalism to be in ‘Frank Laubach Paradigm.’ However, most of studies that explore a concept of literacy show its position beyond it and aim to ‘Paulo Freire Paradigm.’ Such contradictory position of the studies on literacy in Korea in-between two different paradigms requires, conclusively, more dialogic actions as literacy has been considered to be contested terrain.