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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A Graduation Marked by Service: Kimchi Sharing for Veterans in Busan

When people finish a season of learning, it is natural to celebrate. But in Busan, something even more beautiful happened. The graduates of the Zion Christian Mission Center’s 116th class chose to celebrate their graduation by serving others first. Their “first step” as believers was a step of love.

On December 2–3, the Shincheonji Busan James Tribe held the 1st Graduation Volunteer Service, preparing and delivering 2.2 tons of kimchi to local national veterans and senior heroes who served their country. More than 240 volunteers, including over 100 new graduates, joined the event.


A Community Working Together for Good

At the kimchi-making site, older volunteers with years of experience worked side by side with brand-new graduates. Their teamwork showed a touching picture of unity—different ages, backgrounds, and experiences blending like the seasonings in kimchi.

Some volunteers laughed as they cheered,
“It feels so good to give!”

By the end, everyone joined together to shout the main message of the day:
“A warm beginning for the world—let’s keep walking together!”


More Than Kimchi: A Day Filled with Heart

The event included many small but meaningful activities:

Handwritten Letters for National Heroes

Young volunteers wrote personal letters to veterans, sharing respect and thanks. Many students said it was their first time truly understanding the sacrifices made for their country.

One student wrote:
“Thank you for protecting our nation. I hope your life is filled with happiness.”

Veterans who received the letters were deeply moved—some even said the letters touched them more than the kimchi itself.

Sharing Food and Encouragement

Volunteers enjoyed warm drinks, kimchi pancakes, and a simple meal together. It was a moment of joy, connection, and gratitude.


Honoring Those Who Gave Everything

James Tribe leader Lee Young-no joined the volunteers, wearing gloves and an apron as he made kimchi with everyone. He shared:

“A believer’s first step is love and gratitude.
We want our graduates to remember the sacrifices made for this country.”

The kimchi and letters were delivered to many veteran organizations across Busan and Masan, including:

  • Korea Disabled Veterans Association (Busan Branch & 16 local branches)

  • Korea Vietnam Veterans Association (Busan Branch)

  • Local veterans’ halls across Yeongdo, Sasang, and Saha

  • Three major veteran groups in Masan

Veterans expressed sincere appreciation. One said:

“Young people remembered us as heroes. That alone makes our past sacrifice worthwhile.”


A First Step Toward a Life of Service

The 116th graduating class of Shincheonji Busan James Tribe shared that this experience strengthened their desire to serve their community with the heart of Jesus. They plan to continue volunteering, helping neighbors, and spreading warmth wherever they go.

This event was more than a celebration—it was a picture of love in action.


Source:  https://tinyurl.com/4k3jwn43

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