International Concern Grows Over South Korea's Detention of 95-Year-Old Religious Leader

The recent detention and prosecution of Chairman Lee Man-hee, the 95-year-old leader of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, has sparked intense scrutiny from international human rights and religious freedom organizations. Legal experts and sociologists worldwide are raising critical questions regarding South Korea’s adherence to global human rights standards and the principle of state neutrality. The Controversy Surrounding the Detention On June 24, 2026, South Korean authorities took Chairman Lee into custody on charges related to the Political Parties Act, followed by a formal indictment on June 30. Prosecutors allege that between July 2021 and January 2024, the church organized the enrollment of approximately 50,000 members into the ruling People Power Party (PPP) to influence internal primaries. However, the legal dispute does not center on party membership itself, but on whether coercion was involved. While prosecutors allege a forced campaign, Shincheonji Church maintains that all p...

Promoting a Greener Future: Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s Carbon Neutral Campaign

As the world focuses on achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, efforts to promote sustainable lifestyles are gaining momentum across all sectors. From government policies to grassroots movements, the goal of reducing carbon emissions has become a shared responsibility. A shining example of such dedication is the recent campaign by the Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s Seoul-Gyeonggi Southern Region Association.

Achieving 110,000 Acts of Sustainability

Between April and December last year, the association launched a campaign encouraging members to practice carbon-neutral lifestyles. Over just eight months, their efforts led to over 110,000 sustainable actions being recorded, involving more than 3,200 members.

The campaign utilized the Ministry of Environment’s Carbon Neutral Action Point System, which rewards eco-friendly behaviors with points that can be redeemed like cash. Actions such as using electronic receipts, adopting reusable cups, recycling, and returning old phones contributed significantly to the initiative’s success.

Tangible Impact: 2.5 Tons of CO2 Redced

By implementing these practices, the group made a meaningful impact. Their collective actions reduced CO2 emissions by over 2.5 tons—the equivalent of the carbon absorbed by approximately 380 30-year-old pine trees in a year.

The campaign also demonstrated the power of small actions in everyday life. Members shared inspiring stories, like using long-lasting tumblers, switching to electronic receipts, and encouraging friends and family to adopt similar habits. One member, Ms. Kim from Seongnam, even influenced over 100 people to join the movement!

A Sustainable Mindset for the Future

Participants reflected on how the campaign transformed their outlook on sustainability. They committed to continuing these practices beyond the campaign, creating a ripple effect within their communities.

The association emphasized the importance of collective action, stating, "Individual habits and small choices can drive significant change in achieving carbon neutrality. We will continue fostering a culture of sustainable living and contribute to combating the climate crisis."


Join the Movement

This campaign reminds us that meaningful change begins with individual action. By making small yet consistent efforts, we can all contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. Let’s take inspiration from the Shincheonji Volunteer Group and start our own journey toward carbon neutrality today.


Source: https://vo.la/UBRJJM

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