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...

Shincheonji Volunteers Restore Roads in Seosan After Record-Breaking Rainfall in South Korea

South Korea has recently faced one of the most severe rainy seasons in years, with sudden downpours leading to widespread flooding, landslides, and infrastructure damage across the country. Among the hardest-hit areas was Seosan, Chungcheongnam-do, where rainfall reached nearly 100mm per hour. As roads became impassable and local residents struggled with the aftermath, volunteers from the Shincheonji Church of Jesus stepped in with quiet determination to help their neighbors.

Shincheonji Volunteer Group Responds to Flood Damage in Seosan

On July 17, following the heavy rains, about 30 members of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s Seosan branch quickly mobilized and arrived at the disaster site with shovels and tools. The team worked tirelessly for three hours, clearing mud, fallen rocks, and debris that had blocked key roadways. Their efforts successfully restored traffic flow and improved safety for residents in the affected area.

“We came as soon as the rain stopped,” said one volunteer. “We just wanted to help before the situation got worse.”

Faith in Action During Natural Disasters

This isn’t the first time the Shincheonji Volunteer Group has provided emergency support during natural disasters in Korea. From flood relief to typhoon recovery, their local teams have consistently worked behind the scenes to support community recovery.

One volunteer noted, “Regardless of how people may view us because of our faith, we believe that helping neighbors in need is a shared responsibility. We’ll keep doing what we can—quietly and sincerely.”


Why Local Volunteer Work Matters More Than Ever

As South Korea continues to experience extreme weather due to climate change, community-led disaster relief has never been more important. Grassroots volunteer groups like Shincheonji play a vital role in rebuilding local infrastructure, protecting lives, and providing emotional support during emergencies.

In a season marked by crisis, stories of compassion and quick action offer hope. The Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s work in Seosan is a reminder that true faith is demonstrated not just in words, but in selfless acts of care.

Source: https://vo.la/NSQtTYE

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