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...
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Celebrating the 80th Anniversary of Korea’s Liberation with History, Fun, and Refreshment

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s Seoul East Branch marked the 80th anniversary of Korea’s Liberation Day (Gwangbokjeol) with a lively community event near Junggye Station, blending historical reflection with summer relief activities. Over 200 participants, including families and young people, gathered to honor history while enjoying hands-on experiences.


What is Gwangbokjeol?

Gwangbokjeol (광복절), celebrated every August 15 in South Korea, marks the nation’s liberation from Japanese colonial rule in 1945. The name means “Restoration of Light Day,” symbolizing the regaining of national sovereignty and freedom. It is both a day of remembrance for the sacrifices made by independence activists and a celebration of the country’s restored independence.

Honoring the Spirit of Liberation

The event offered interactive activities for all ages, such as the Patriotic Taegukgi Fingerprint Pledge, storytelling sessions about Korea’s proud independence activists, Taegukgi coloring, and making hibiscus (Korea’s national flower) keychains from recycled materials. Visitors also tried their luck at a prize roulette and other fun challenges that connected them to the meaning of Gwangbokjeol.

A Cool Twist for a Hot Summer

To help participants beat the heat, the “Glacier Treasure Hunt” activity distributed 200 bottles of ice-cold water. Citizens also enjoyed a water balloon toss and learned practical heatwave safety tips — a combination of fun and public health awareness.

One attendee, 19-year-old Kim Eun-su from Nowon District, reflected, “When I think of Liberation Day, I first think of Yu Gwan-sun. After visiting Seodaemun Prison, I felt a heavy heart.” Another participant, 26-year-old Lee Mi-hee, commented, “Many people see Gwangbokjeol as just a holiday, but it would be great to have more light and trendy history content through platforms like YouTube.”

Yu Yeong-bin, head of the Seoul East Branch, expressed, “On this 80th anniversary, it was meaningful to revisit history with citizens and share national pride. We will continue offering historical education and engaging activities that the younger generation can enjoy.”


Keeping History Alive for Future Generations

Through a mix of education, creativity, and refreshing activities, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group reminded participants that Gwangbokjeol is more than a day off work — it is a time to reflect on history, honor those who fought for freedom, and pass on the spirit of national pride to the next generation.


Source: https://vo.la/B78wBW

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