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...

Giving Life Through Blood: Shincheonji Church's Volunteer Spirit in Action

In March and April 2025, members of Shincheonji Church of Jesus and its volunteer group once again showed the power of love in action through blood donation campaigns in both Yangsan and Changwon.

In Yangsan, the Shincheonji Church's local branch organized a month-long campaign under the title “Let’s Donate Blood Together and Share Love.” Over 50 members participated, with more than 40 successfully donating blood. Despite busy schedules and daily responsibilities, members made time to take part in this life-saving effort.

“Blood donation is more than just giving blood—it’s giving life,” one participant shared. A young man in his 20s said he was thankful to take part in something that brings hope to others. Another member said, “Jesus told us to love our neighbor as ourselves. I try to live out His words through blood donation.”


On March 19, a mobile blood donation bus was set up near the church to make participation even more accessible. The campaign wasn’t just about giving blood—it was a way to show that small actions of love can bring big changes to someone’s life.

Meanwhile, in Changwon, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group held a one-day blood donation drive in front of their church on April 2. This event included an informative Q&A booth to educate the public on why blood donation is important, especially for those suffering from diseases like leukemia or hemophilia.


One volunteer shared how she had missed the last campaign due to health issues but made special efforts to recover and donate this time. “I really wanted to take part. It feels good to know I can help someone in need.”

Medical staff at the scene emphasized how vital such donations are. “To meet daily needs in our region, we need more than 300 donors each day,” one official said. “Thanks to Shincheonji’s consistent efforts, we’re able to maintain a stable blood supply.”

Shincheonji’s volunteer teams have been actively promoting blood donation since 2015. With love and faith as their motivation, they continue to support their communities through consistent action and care.

One small act of kindness—like donating blood—can save a life. And for members of Shincheonji, this is how faith becomes real in everyday life.


Source: https://vo.la/oaDfea & https://vo.la/xIvkxQ

댓글

이 블로그의 인기 게시물

Shincheonji Netherlands Church and Class 116 Graduates Carry Out Environmental Cleanup in Rotterdam

Winter Break Program Opens Career Exploration Opportunities for Youth in Gwangju

Class 116 Graduates Share Warmth Through Kimchi: A Winter of Giving in the Peter and Andre Tribes