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...

3,000 Visitors Join Shincheonji Busan Church Open House, Strengthening Community Trust

Shincheonji Busan Church recently welcomed over 3,000 guests for its Open House event — a meaningful step toward opening dialogue with the community. As someone who supports Shincheonji’s efforts to build transparency and trust, I believe this event showed what open communication can look like in real life.

A Warm, Organized, and Open Experience

From the morning into the afternoon, visitors were greeted by friendly volunteers and guides who helped them explore different parts of the church. Families, neighbors, local guests, and Bible students from Zion Christian Mission Center walked through various activity stations, lectures, and displays. Many people mentioned that they felt comfortable to observe freely, ask questions, and see how things work without pressure or secrecy. This calm and welcoming atmosphere helped create understanding rather than distance.



Learning About Faith Through Prophecy and Fulfillment

One of the key moments was a lecture by Church Leader Lee Young-no, who spoke about Revelation in the Bible and how the message of prophecy and fulfillment carries meaning for believers today. Some attendees expressed that this explanation helped them see the faith in a clearer and more grounded way. Visitors also had the chance to view testimonies and handwritten reflections from members, showing how personal lives changed — from improved family relationships to a stronger sense of purpose and peace.

Community Care and Practical Support

The Open House also included helpful services like a booth run by an eye specialist, offering vision checks and medical advice to visitors. It was encouraging to see that the event wasn’t only about sharing beliefs, but also about serving practical needs of the community. This combination of spiritual education and everyday care reflected a heart of service.


Continuing the Conversation with the Community

What stood out to me was the intention to provide clear information and open dialogue, allowing visitors to see everything firsthand and form their own impressions. The church shared that they will continue events like this to build understanding and strengthen connection with the wider community. As someone who supports these efforts, I believe that genuine communication can open doors to mutual respect and learning.


Source: https://vo.la/dTuUohx

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