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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The "Heavenly Exam": 7,400+ Believers in Busan Challenge Themselves with Bible Memorization

While many are moving away from religious texts, one community in Busan is doing the exact opposite. The Shincheonji Andrew Tribe recently held its "Heavenly Exam" (Cheonguk-gosi), a rigorous test focused on memorizing and understanding the Book of Revelation.


Why the "Heavenly Exam"? 

This isn't just about grades. It's about a "spiritual reset." After seeing a massive 3-fold increase in participants compared to last year, over 7,459 believers sat for the exam on March 28th. The goal? To embed the Word of God into their daily lives and build a faith that isn't just a weekend hobby, but a lifestyle.

Real People, Real Change:

  • For Young Professionals: Like 29-year-old Park Jung-won, who memorized verses during his commute. "It helped me build a habit of self-discipline and reflection," he says.

  • For Seniors: Like 72-year-old Kim Soon-bok, who stayed up late to study. "Memorizing keeps my mind focused and elevates my meditation," she shares.


More than a Test 

An Andrew Tribe official explained that this process helps believers practice the Word in their daily routines rather than just listening to sermons passively. With attendance skyrocketing, the "Heavenly Exam" is becoming a powerful movement for spiritual recovery in the Busan region.


Source: https://vo.la/1aQkBk4

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  1. Noah Brown2026년 5월 6일 오전 6:18

    I know not of any other church that tests its congregation on a weekly basis. Real evidence of love for God and His Word!

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