75.4% of the Public Distrust Korean Churches: Shincheonji Busan Church Calls for Greater Interdenominational Dialogue

 

Pastors attending the "Sharing and Exchange Session for Pastors" at the 2026 Shincheonji Bible Seminar, held in Busan last April, are discussing ways to restore trust in the Korean church and expand communication across different denominations and groups

With 75.4% of South Koreans expressing distrust of Korean churches, Shincheonji Busan Church is highlighting the importance of communication and dialogue between denominations to help rebuild public confidence.

The Busan Church of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, affiliated with the Busan James Tribe, recently held a seminar in Busan focused on mutual growth and communication between denominations.

According to the 2026 social trust survey on Korean churches, released by the Christian Ethics Movement (CEM), key reasons for distrust included perceptions that churches prioritise their own interests over the public good and believe their views are the only correct ones.

The seminar explored ways to address these concerns through Bible-centered dialogue, encouraging religious communities to move beyond denominational boundaries and strengthen communication with society.

Young-no Lee, head of the Busan James Tribe, said, “Many of the problems currently facing the Protestant community ultimately stem from a lack of communication.” He added, “Because we do not interact with one another, prejudices have arisen and misunderstandings have accumulated, resulting in the creation of higher walls.”

Pastor Kim, affiliated with the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of Korea and serving in Busan for more than 20 years, also emphasised the value of open dialogue.

“Seeing people communicate by returning to the common standard of the Bible, I saw the possibility of expanding channels for dialogue within the religious community,” he said. He added, “Now, we must move beyond the mindset that only we are right and open channels of communication with our neighbours and wider society.”

Shincheonji Busan Church plans to continue fostering interdenominational exchanges and discussions to promote religious understanding and work towards restoring public trust.

Source: vo.la/19IIkmm