Venerable Jigwang, head of the Korean Buddhist Munsu Order, held a solo protest on the afternoon of 28th September, calling for Shincheonji Chairman ManHee Lee’s release on bail for medical treatment.

From 5:30 to 6:10pm., the monk held a sign reading, “One day of treatment, re-imprisonment. This worsens the condition of a very elderly 95-year-old. Please allow him to receive treatment on bail as soon as possible instead of a temporary prescription.”

Venerable Jigwang said he joined the protest out of concern for Chairman Lee’s health and human rights, emphasising, “He should not be treated as if he is guilty when his guilt has not been confirmed.” He added that he hoped Chairman Lee would be released promptly to prevent his health from deteriorating further in detention.

Addressing the relationship between religion and politics, Jigwang stated, “For a peaceful world, politics must not suppress any religion, and laws and principles must be applied correctly and fairly to everyone.” He stressed, “No one should suffer injustice.”

During the protest, some passing motorists slowed to read the signs. Jigwang said, “I saw cars stop for a while after looking at the picket signs before driving away,” expressing hope that the message would reach the court and help secure Chairman Lee’s release.

Drawing on Buddhist teachings, he called for reconciliation and sound judgment over confrontation. “Just as it teaches not to carelessly criticixe or hate others, I earnestly prayed while reciting the Thousand-Hand Sutra that all matters would be resolved correctly,” he said.

The protest ended without significant incident. Jigwang reiterated that Chairman Lee’s health and human rights, along with fair judicial procedures, should be considered beyond religious divisions.

Source: vo.la/I9gJB9Z

On the morning of 29th September, Venerable Doan, abbot of Yongheungsa Temple of the Korean Buddhist Ilgwang Jogye Order, held a one-person protest outside the Seoul Central District Court, calling for medical bail for Shincheonji Chairman ManHee Lee in consideration of his advanced age and health.

His placard read: “95-year-old Chairman ManHee Lee is suffering from a fractured spine. I earnestly appeal for medical bail.”

Venerable Doan explained that seeing other monks participate in similar protests had inspired him to join. “Although I am suffering from shingles, I received nutritional support yesterday and came here to contribute, even in a small way, to the speedy release of Chairman Lee,” he said.

Despite loud protests nearby and his own discomfort, he remained composed by reciting the Thousand Hands Sutra and the Heart Sutra.

“My only wish was for the Chairman to be released and return as soon as possible,” he said, explaining that he prayed for his speedy release and medical bail.

Although standing for an hour was physically challenging, Venerable Doan stayed until the end. “Although it is physically difficult, I believe it is my duty to call for the speedy release of the Chairman,” he said.

Source: vo.la/NMdH2Yz

The camera shutter clicked as an elderly participant posed for a portrait. A volunteer checked the image on the screen, capturing a moment that would soon become a lasting keepsake.

The scene unfolded at the Jecheon Veterans Hall in North Chungcheong Province on the 23rd of last month, shortly before the Chuseok holiday. Around 50 members of veterans’ organisations took part in Donghaeng ('Companion'), a regular volunteer initiative organised by the Jecheon Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group.

Volunteers provided hairdressing and grooming services before photographing participants individually. Each portrait was printed and framed, offering the veterans a special memento to cherish.

As participants admired their new hairstyles and portraits, laughter and conversation filled the venue. Some proudly showed their photographs to friends, while others gazed at their framed pictures with emotion.

Sang-gu Lee, chairman of the Jecheon branch of the Defoliant Veterans Association, expressed his gratitude, saying, “They even styled my hair and took a photo for me to keep in a frame. It feels like receiving a special gift.” He added, “I’m happy to have a memory I can treasure for a long time.”

The event was held as part of a support project by the Chungcheongbuk-do Comprehensive Volunteer Center and forms part of the Jecheon Branch’s monthly Donghaeng programme, which provides grooming services, hands-on activities, and opportunities for fellowship with veterans.

A representative of the Jecheon Branch said, “We prepared this activity in the hope that each photograph, though just a single image, would become a precious memory and a meaningful expression of our gratitude.”

As participants left the Veterans Hall with their framed portraits, they took home more than photographs—they carried reminders of a day shaped by appreciation, companionship, and care.

Meanwhile, the Jecheon Branch plans to continue its regular visits, offering seasonal activities, grooming services, and other community programmes for veterans.

Source: vo.la/EXGlpgI

Calls are growing for the court to expedite its decision on the bail request of ManHee Lee, 95, chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, who was arrested and indicted on charges of violating the Political Parties Act. More than two months have passed since he applied for bail, yet the court has not issued a ruling. Advocates argue that his health and human rights should be taken into account, particularly as his detention has been suspended six times due to medical concerns.

They contend that, rather than repeatedly granting temporary releases for medical treatment, the court should consider bail as a way to provide more stable access to care while allowing the trial to proceed.

According to legal sources, 102 days had passed since Chairman Lee’s arrest on June 24. He applied for bail on 4th August, and a hearing was held on 21st August, but no decision had been announced at the time of reporting.

Chairman Lee has reportedly received six suspensions of detention for health-related reasons. He is currently receiving hospital treatment under a temporary release arrangement, which was scheduled to remain in effect until 6pm on 7th October. Recently, a group of external medical specialists reportedly submitted a joint opinion to the court stating that “Chairman ManHee Lee needs treatment at a specialised medical institution through immediate bail or conditional release.”

Article 55 of the Rules of Criminal Procedure stipulates that, “unless there are special circumstances, the court shall make a decision on the matter within seven days from the date of receiving a request for bail or cancellation of detention.”

Kyung-sik Oh, a professor in the Department of Law at Kangwon National University, described the prolonged delay in deciding the bail request as “an unusual case” and called for a swift ruling that considers Chairman Lee’s health and circumstances.

“If there is no risk of flight and detention has been suspended repeatedly for medical treatment, it seems entirely feasible to grant bail,” Professor Oh said. He also highlighted the human rights and administrative challenges of detaining and arranging medical care for elderly inmates.

Sang-kyum Kim, an emeritus professor at Dongguk University’s Graduate School of Law, also urged the court to decide promptly, citing Chairman Lee’s advanced age and chronic illness. Referring to the constitutional right to a speedy trial, he emphasised that judicial discretion must remain within legal limits and that the reasons for bail decisions should be clearly explained.

In response to questions about the delay, an official from the Seoul Central District Court explained, “In practice, there are cases in which a decision is made a considerable amount of time after the bail hearing.”

Meanwhile, on 28th September, the 27th Criminal Division of the Seoul Central District Court, presided over by Judge In-seong Woo, held a second preliminary hearing in the case involving Chairman Lee and others. The defendants face charges including violations of the Political Parties Act and obstruction of business, relating to allegations that believers were pressured to join the People Power Party.

During the hearing, Chairman Lee’s defence attorney stated, “We admit to all charges regarding party membership but deny all charges regarding coercion.” The defence acknowledged the membership-related facts while maintaining that no organised coercion had taken place.

The court scheduled the next preliminary hearing for 6th October. Future proceedings are expected to address the main case, whether an assessment of the defendant’s cognitive abilities is necessary, and whether the case should be consolidated with a separate indictment.

Source: vo.la/1YujVWX

On the afternoon of 30th September, Venerable Myeongbeop, abbot of Seokbulsa Temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, held a one-person protest outside the Seoul District Court, calling for medical bail for 95-year-old Chairman ManHee Lee, a recipient of national merit recognition.

Venerable Myeongbeop explained his reasons for participating, saying, “I learned through the media that a 95-year-old religious leader was being detained and investigated.” He added, “Given that there appears to be no risk of flight or evidence destruction, I joined the protest in the hope that bail would be granted to protect his life.”

The monk also shared his views on society’s attitudes towards religion, emphasising that people should not be judged negatively simply because they belong to a particular religious group. Addressing the controversy surrounding Shincheonji, he stressed the importance of respecting religious freedom and individual convictions.

“There is freedom of religion, and everyone should be able to believe according to their own convictions,” he said. “I believe no one should face discrimination on the grounds of religion.”

Venerable Myeongbeop further emphasised the need to consider the age and health of elderly defendants when making decisions about detention and trial proceedings.

“If detention appears inappropriate given the legal limits and circumstances, I believe the investigation should proceed with immediate consideration of bail and home confinement,” he said. “Since home confinement itself imposes significant restrictions, I believe it can also serve the purpose of restricting a person's movements.”

He reiterated that the law must be applied consistently and fairly, noting that particular care is needed when deciding whether elderly individuals with serious physical limitations must remain in prison.

“If there is no risk of flight or evidence destruction, alternatives such as hospital treatment or home confinement are available,” he said. “Is it truly necessary to keep a physically incapacitated elderly person in prison?”

He also appealed to the court to avoid measures that could be perceived as excessive or oppressive. “I believe we should not create the impression of oppression through excessive detention,” he said. “I sincerely hope the court will grant medical bail, taking the elderly defendant’s life and health into consideration.”

The protest signs highlighted Chairman Lee’s age of 95, his status as a Korean War veteran, and his reported diagnosis of a spinal fracture. One read: “At 95, Chairman ManHee Lee has been diagnosed with a spinal fracture. Hospital treatment is now more urgent than detention. We sincerely appeal for bail to be granted.”

Explaining his reasons for joining the protest, Pastor Park said, “I was saddened to hear that a 95-year-old man was in detention and that his health had deteriorated.” He added, “I came here hoping that the decision on medical bail would be made after careful consideration of his current health condition.”

Pastor Park also reflected on his changing perspective towards Shincheonji. “In the past, I, too, viewed Shincheonji negatively simply because of its affiliation,” he said. “However, I came to realise that, as a person of faith, we should approach others with love and respect rather than prejudice.”

He continued, “Just as the Bible teaches us to love our enemies, I believe we should judge members of society based on facts and principles rather than stigmatising them.”

Pastor Tae-soo Park is holding a one-person protest in front of the Seoul District Court on the morning of 1st October, holding a picket sign urging the granting of bail and hospital treatment for Shincheonji Church of Jesus Chairman ManHee Lee.

Addressing the broader issue of elderly defendants in detention, Pastor Park emphasised the importance of humanitarian considerations during legal proceedings. “The nature of the charges and legal responsibility must be assessed according to the law, but a person’s age, health condition, and need for medical treatment must also be fully considered,” he said. “When someone’s health has significantly deteriorated, appropriate measures should be considered to ensure access to necessary treatment.”

Pastor Park also called on the court and society to uphold fairness and impartiality. “The law must be applied equally to everyone,” he stressed. “Public opinion or religious prejudice must not take precedence over judicial judgment.”

He added that respecting both religious freedom and the principles of the rule of law could help reduce social conflict and foster greater harmony and peace.

The one-person protest aimed to draw attention to Chairman Lee’s detention status and appeal for access to medical care in light of his advanced age and reported health concerns. The court’s decision on bail will depend on its assessment of the applicable legal requirements, his health condition, and other relevant circumstances.

Source: vo.la/CDpMDU0

— Local Resident, Songha-dong, Nam District, Gwangju

In March 2024, a quiet alley corner in Songha-dong, Nam District, Gwangju, faced a persistent problem with illegal dumping and discarded waste.

Rather than relying on conventional warning signs, volunteers from the Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s Songha Branch took a creative, hands-on approach. They cleared the accumulated rubbish and transformed discarded tires into colorful, hand-painted flower planters. What began as a small effort to clean up a single alley corner soon blossomed into a wider community greening initiative.

The transformation quickly caught the attention of local residents and village leaders, who began requesting similar mini gardens for their own neighbourhoods. Their enthusiasm helped extend the project beyond Gwangju into surrounding communities

Expanding the Initiative: From March 2024 through September 2026, the Songha Branch completed 20 upcycling garden projects, repurposing more than 350 discarded tires into colourful planters.

Partnership in Hwasun-gun: Volunteers established gardens in Maengri Village in Baeka-myeon and along Gyedong-gil. At Oseong 2nd Apartments, the Hwasun-gun County Office supported the project by providing bricks and fresh flowers for garden wall improvements.

Bringing Greenery to Naju City: In February 2025, volunteers introduced mini gardens to unused spaces in Uksil Village, Bonghwang-myeon, revitalising the local streetscape and making the neighbourhood more welcoming.

Each garden reflects careful preparation and a commitment to sustainability. Volunteers select suitable discarded tires, clean and treat their surfaces, paint them in vibrant colors, and fill them with nutrient-rich soil before planting flowers and young trees. Through this process, materials once considered waste are given a new purpose.

The project’s impact extends beyond beautification, encouraging residents and local organizations to take an active role in maintaining their shared spaces.

Ongoing Care at Sansu Market: Following the installation of a garden at Sansu Market, the local merchant association welcomed the refreshed market entrance and agreed to help water and maintain the plants alongside workers from a local senior employment programme.

Building Intergenerational Connections: The Songha Branch also developed the gardens into spaces for social interaction, organising gardening workshops and community gatherings that brought local older residents together.

Reflecting on the initiative’s development, a representative of the Songha Branch explained:

What began as a small cleanup project in Songha-dong has grown into a collaborative effort to create cleaner, greener, and more welcoming neighbourhoods. By combining upcycling, volunteer service, and local participation, the Songha Branch is demonstrating how simple ideas can inspire lasting change—one garden and one community at a time.

On the afternoon of the 1st, Venerable Yongjin held a solo protest outside the Seoul District Court, calling for medical bail for Chairman ManHee Lee, citing his advanced age and deteriorating health.

The protest followed reports that Chairman Lee, a 95-year-old national merit recipient, had suffered a spinal fracture while in custody. The placards called for his health to be assessed and for him to receive appropriate medical treatment.

“I heard that a 95-year-old national merit recipient had suffered a spinal fracture while in custody and that his health had deteriorated. From the perspective of human dignity and human rights, I felt deeply saddened,” Venerable Yongjin said.

He added, “We must show respect to those who have dedicated themselves to the country,” expressing hope that medical bail would be considered after a thorough assessment of Chairman Lee’s health and circumstances.

Addressing negative perceptions of Shincheonji, Venerable Yongjin warned against religious prejudice. “We should not judge people based on preconceived ideas or prejudice about their religion,” he said, adding that Buddhism teaches people to “cherish all life and practise compassion.”

“Rather than excluding others because of religious differences, we need to foster mutual understanding and respect,” he emphasised.

He also stressed that elderly defendants’ age and health should be considered in detention and trial decisions. “The law must be applied equally to everyone,” he said. “I hope judgments will be based on objective facts and legal principles rather than personal emotions or social prejudice.”

Venerable Yongjin concluded by expressing hope for a society where people respect one another regardless of religious differences. The protest called for a review of Chairman Lee’s detention status and access to appropriate medical treatment in consideration of his age and health.

Source: vo.la/Hmx7BEV

On the morning of the 2nd, Venerable Yongsan, abbot of Bogwangsa Temple of the Korean Buddhist Jogye Order, held a one-person protest in front of the Seoul Central District Court, calling for a trial without detention for ManHee Lee, Chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony.

Holding a picket sign outside the court, Venerable Yongsan called for consideration of Chairman Lee’s age and health, while emphasising the importance of fair judicial procedures.

“It is unacceptable to detain an elderly person without concrete evidence and conduct an unfair investigation,” he said, questioning the legitimacy and fairness of the investigation process.

He also stressed that religious affiliation or social prejudice should not influence judicial judgment. “We must not judge him without looking at the path he has taken,” he said, adding that other religious leaders had also spoken out after witnessing Chairman Lee’s activities. He called on the media and public to verify the facts rather than relying on a one-sided negative view.

Venerable Yongsan further urged the court to consider the age and health of elderly defendants when determining whether detention is necessary. “Elderly people should not be detained for matters that are not serious crimes,” he said.

He also highlighted Chairman Lee’s status as a Korean War veteran and his activities promoting world peace. “A war veteran who travelled the world calling for world peace should not be treated this way,” he said.

Raising concerns about Chairman Lee’s health while in custody, Venerable Yongsan asked, “What would you do if your health deteriorated?”

His picket highlighted the difficulties of receiving continuous treatment at the age of 95, particularly following a lumbar spine fracture, stating: “It is too cruel that the reality makes even continuous treatment difficult for a 95-year-old who has suffered a fractured lumbar spine.”

Concluding his appeal, Venerable Yongsan said, “I strongly urge for a trial without detention.”

The protest emphasised the need to carefully balance the health and dignity of elderly defendants, the right to a fair trial, and the necessity of detention, while calling for appropriate medical care for Chairman Lee.

Source: vo.la/89cCQWZ

Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony, Bartholomew Tribe's Yeongdeungpo Church recently held a health promotion campaign for elderly members.

The church has been conducting regular health promotion campaigns since August last year to support members’ health management. Initially focused on those aged 70 and older, the programme has since expanded to include middle-aged members in their 40s to 60s.

The latest campaign targeted members aged 70 and older, particularly in response to the large temperature fluctuations associated with the changing season. Medical professionals provided diabetes prevention education and offered health screenings, including blood pressure and blood sugar measurements, health questionnaires, and personalised lifestyle and dietary counselling.

Members with elevated blood pressure or who required further evaluation were advised to visit external medical facilities for additional examinations and treatment.

Ms. Myeong-ok An, 73, of Daerim-dong, said, “I got tested and my blood sugar levels came out a little high. I exercise regularly, but I think I need to take better care of my body.” She added, “I am grateful that the medical staff explained how to manage my health in an easy-to-understand way.”

Ms. Young-bun Lee, 75, also of Daerim-dong, said, “It is not easy to travel to and from a specialised hospital for a health check-up, and it can take a long time. It is a great help to be able to have my health checked regularly without having to go to the hospital.”

An official from Shincheonji Yeongdeungpo Church said, “As temperatures continue to drop, we plan to strengthen our health and welfare services to support the healthy daily lives and religious activities of our members.”

Source: vo.la/NvqH5iI

In June, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Yeonsu Branch conducted storm drain maintenance and environmental cleanup in Okryeon-dong, Yeonsu District, Incheon, ahead of the rainy season.

Fifteen volunteers focused on alleyways prone to water accumulation, clearing storm drains of fallen leaves, cigarette butts, soil and household waste while checking drainage conditions. They also collected litter from nearby alleys and drainage ditches to help prevent blockages, backflow and flooding.

A local resident said, “I usually just pass by minding my own business, but seeing them open and clean the drains made me realise how much work goes into maintaining them. I hope these efforts continue to improve the alley environment.”

Moon Yong-wook, Vice Branch Manager of the Yeonsu Branch, said, “We are conducting continuous maintenance activities in areas where water repeatedly accumulates.” He added, “We will continue to work steadily to contribute to local environmental management.”

Source: vo.la/9agEBqJ

Shincheonji Church of Jesus’ Gwacheon Church held the ‘Let’s Play, Dad’ family picnic at Chomakgol Ecological Park in Gyeonggi Province on 23rd June.

Around 30 families participated in games including a treasure hunt, tag, and water balloon activities, giving fathers and children an opportunity to play and reconnect.

Na-yun Kim (7) said, “Dad always said he was tired, but today we ran around and played together, and I really liked it. Dad was like Superman.”

Se-jung Oh (38), whose wife has largely handled childcare due to his frequent business trips, said, “I think I was a dad who simply watched from a distance with a stern look in my eyes.” He added, “I feel like the wall that had built up between us has come down a little today as I spent time making eye contact and playing with my child.”

A Shincheonji Gwacheon Church official said, “Knowledge fades with time, but the warmth and laughter experienced while playing with one’s father during childhood remain in our memories for a long time.”

He added, “The busier you are, the more consciously you must make time to be with your family.”

Source: https://www.kgnews.co.kr/news/article.html?no=897266

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Goyang Branch honoured Korean War veterans in Goyang Special City during the Month of Patriots and Veterans (June) earlier this year.

On 12th June, the branch visited the Goyang City Branch of the Korean War Veterans Association and donated 30 packs of samgyetang (chicken ginseng soup) and 15 calligraphy frames to local veterans, expressing gratitude and reminding them that their sacrifices have not been forgotten.

Veterans warmly welcomed the volunteers, and eight representatives received the donations in person. One veteran said, “I am always thankful.”

Chun-sik Cho, Chairman of the Goyang City Branch, said, “It pains me to see recipients of meritorious service pass away due to old age, but I am grateful that you have not forgotten about their health and well-being and continue to care for them.”

A Goyang Branch official said, “We are here today because of those who sacrificed for our country.”

Meanwhile, the Goyang Branch plans to continue supporting veterans and vulnerable members of the local community through volunteer activities.

Source: https://www.discoverynews.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=1093355

The activity was organised to help veterans revisit their younger years, reflect on their lives and remember the significance of the Korean War and their sacrifices.

Veterans expressed their gratitude, saying, “Seeing ourselves in our 20s brings back memories of the hardships and the past,” adding, “We will keep the frames on our desks or by our bedsides and cherish them for a long time.”

A young volunteer said, “I was reminded once again that today’s peace and freedom exist because of the youth of the war veterans,” adding, “Through this activity, I was able to have a meaningful time reflecting on the significance of the Korean War and the spirit of patriotism.”

Branch Manager Jin Man-gi said, “I hope this activity gives war veterans an opportunity to reflect on the years gone by and experience empathy, comfort, and connection.” He added, “We will continue serving our local community through meaningful volunteer activities that honour veterans, bring people together, and strengthen connections between generations.”

The Seongnam Branch plans to expand talent-sharing and intergenerational volunteer programmes with local veterans’ organisations and welfare institutions.

The Donghae Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group recently hosted a ‘Bongsunga School Festival’ at East Sea Central Market Square to support local traditional markets and connect with merchants, residents, and visitors.

The event followed a business agreement signed last January with the market merchants’ association to help revitalise the local economy. Previous activities included a gourd-breaking event, a ‘You Quiz’ highlighting Mukho Market, and a relay sticker campaign featuring favourite local restaurants.

The fifth event invited visitors to take part in national gymnastics, wear retro outfits, and join school-themed activities and commemorative photo sessions.

Yong-jin Gu, chairman of the Dongjokbada Central Market Merchants’ Association, said, “The diverse programmes of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Donghae Branch are healing. I am grateful for their sincere service to the merchants and citizens.”

Merchant Jeong-suk Kim, 62, said, “I heard the Donghae branch was coming, so I boiled a lot of corn. I am always happy to see them, and customers are also happy because they organise various programmes in the market.”

An official from the volunteer group said, “This event was a time of mutual growth where we overcame difficulties and helped one another. We will continue to strive to be a Donghae branch that shares our hearts and supports one another.”

The Suwon branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group recently cleaned traffic safety mirrors in a child protection zone near Suil Elementary School in Pajang neighbourhood, Jangan District, Suwon.

The mirrors help reduce blind spots for drivers and pedestrians, but regular cleaning is needed to maintain clear visibility and prevent accidents.

Five volunteers cleaned 10 mirrors, inspected damaged facilities, and reported issues to the relevant district office. The activity followed a similar effort near Samik Underpass earlier that month, aiming to create safer routes for children.

The volunteers said, “Although it is a small act, we carried out these activities with the hope that they would contribute to the safety of citizens.”

A branch official added, “We hope this activity will help prevent traffic accidents by improving visibility for both children and drivers,” reaffirming the branch’s commitment to creating safer school commuting environments.

On the morning of 28th September, Venerable Dongsan, a Buddhist monk who serves as the abbot of Dongsan Temple, which operates under the World Buddhist Pontifical Peace Foundation, held a one-person protest outside the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho District, Seoul, calling for medical bail for Shincheonji Church of Jesus Chairman ManHee Lee.

Holding a placard highlighting Chairman Lee’s age of 95 and reported spinal fracture, Venerable Dongsan appealed for his release on medical grounds as he greeted passing commuters.

Expressing his concern for Chairman Lee’s condition, Venerable Dongsan said, “While public officials are returning from the holidays, I felt heartbroken thinking that the Chairman is suffering even during the holidays.” He added, “I believe that things are happening that should never happen.”

He also expressed disappointment over the circumstances surrounding the trial, stating, “Judges should be able to conduct trials with confidence and independence, without being influenced by others, and it is deeply regrettable that this is not the case.” He added that, despite the current difficulties, he viewed the situation as “a process for things to go well.”

Venerable Dongsan (Abbot of Dongsan Temple of the World Buddhist Pontifical Peace Foundation) bows towards the court during a one-person protest in front of the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho District, Seoul, on the morning of 28th September, urging bail and leniency for Shincheonji Church of Jesus Chairman ManHee Lee.

Concluding his appeal, Venerable Dongsan expressed faith that circumstances would improve, saying, “Because God and Buddha are present, things will go well.” He pledged to continue his efforts, adding, “I will continue to step my efforts until the day the Chairman is released.”

Source: vo.la/UsVFcEr

The event welcomed members of the Hoengseong County Korean War Veterans Association and Bereaved Families Association. Students from primary school to university age participated, meeting veterans and their families to learn about their experiences and sacrifices.

The programme included a Korean War video, a guided presentation on veterans’ stories, and a flower-pinning ceremony to express gratitude. Participants also made air fresheners and handkerchiefs featuring South Korea’s national flag, creating opportunities for conversation and connection across generations.

Student representative Jeong-yun Heo said, “Our daily lives today were made possible thanks to the sacrifices of the war veterans,” adding, “We will remember their courage and patriotism and grow into adults who love the Republic of Korea.”

A bereaved family member shared a heartfelt letter to her husband who had fought in the war: “Although I regret the years we could not spend together, our children are living well in their respective places. Thanks to you protecting our country, we are enjoying a peaceful life.”

Jeong-su Lee, head of the Wonju branch, emphasised the importance of preserving veterans’ legacy and highlighted the branch's plans to continue organising volunteer activities that encourage people of all ages to share the values of patriotism and respect for veterans.

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

On 24th June, the Seoul-Gyeonggi Western Association, led by Director Jong-ryeol Kwak, announced that volunteers from its Dongjak, Bucheon, and Gimpo branches had participated in grave maintenance and environmental cleanup activities.

After observing a moment of silence at the Memorial Tower, volunteers cleaned gravestones in Section 17, removed weeds and fallen leaves, replaced damaged floral tributes, collected litter, and tidied surrounding green spaces.

Min-seong Kim, 32, a volunteer from Sosa District in Bucheon, reflected on the experience:

A representative of the association highlighted its long-term commitment to community service, stating, “We believe volunteering should not be limited to a particular season or occasion, but should be an ongoing effort to work alongside the local community.”

The association plans to continue supporting local communities through environmental cleanup, welfare initiatives, and talent-sharing activities in cooperation with residents.

Source: https://www.koreasisailbo.com/2290116