Around 50 members of the Suncheon Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group joined a flood recovery effort at Dongcheon Riverside on 1st September, clearing mud, branches and debris left by torrential rain.

Working despite persistent rain, the volunteers removed accumulated sediment and tangled aquatic plants from walking paths, benches, trees and bridge railings to make the riverside accessible to residents again.

“If we each contribute a little effort, our neighbours and fellow citizens can once again enjoy a clean and pleasant environment along Dongcheon,” said volunteer Ha-ri Eum, 30, who joined the cleanup after learning about the damage caused by the flooding.

Young-hee Lee, 72, said, “Even a small contribution can help my neighbours and fellow citizens enjoy a cleaner Dongcheon. I joined in the hope of creating a more pleasant environment for everyone.”

Mi-yeon Im, in her 50s, added, “Taking part in the cleanup makes me feel that not only my surroundings but also my heart are becoming cleaner. Working together to support the community is both heartwarming and meaningful.”

Seon-guk Kim, 51, said, “I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and put into practice the teaching of being the light and salt of the world.”

A representative of the Suncheon Branch said, “We came together to help restore areas affected by the heavy rainfall, even if our contribution was small. We will continue reaching out to communities in need and providing practical support.”

The branch plans to continue its community initiatives, including disaster recovery, environmental cleanups and neighbourhood support activities.

Source: vo.la/cig3826

The Goyang Branch of the Seoul-Gyeonggi Northern Federation of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group visited the Jung District Branch of the Korean War Veterans Association on 4th September to honour veterans and deliver donated supplies and handwritten messages.

With support from local citizens, the volunteers donated 12 bags of 5kg rice, 10 boxes of health drinks and 22 handwritten letters expressing gratitude for the veterans’ sacrifices.

The initiative aimed not only to provide essential supplies but also to connect generations and encourage citizens to take part in honouring those who served during the Korean War.

A representative of the Jung District branch expressed appreciation for the continued visits and support, welcoming further activities for veterans.

Goyang Branch official said, “It is important to remember and appreciate the sacrifices of war veterans who dedicated themselves to our country. We will continue visiting veterans alongside citizens to express our gratitude.”

28 volunteers from the Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s Jinju Branch cleaned up the Nam River in Jinju, South Gyeongsang Province, on 31st October as part of its “Let’s Make Nature Green Again” campaign.

The initiative aims to improve public spaces by removing litter from roadsides, walking trails and green areas. Volunteers worked in teams along the riverbank, from near Jinju City Hall to the Gyeongnam Culture and Arts Centre.

They collected approximately 300 litres of rubbish, filling 15 bags, each holding 20 litres. Their efforts attracted appreciation from passers-by, several of whom offered encouragement and stopped to observe the activity.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of the activity was seeing the area become noticeably cleaner after collecting the litter,” said one volunteer. “Although it may seem like a small effort, it feels meaningful to know that we are helping protect the local environment.”

A representative of the Jinju Branch said the organisation would continue its environmental campaigns and community service initiatives to help create a cleaner, healthier environment.

The branch conducts the cleanup monthly, promoting environmental awareness and encouraging residents to care for their shared public spaces.

Source: vo.la/4MDwMAN

At Baengmagoji Observatory in Cheorwon, Gangwon Province, on 24th October, 95-year-old Korean War veteran Gu-seop Shim recalled his painful separation from his mother.

“My parents went to North Korea, promising to bring back my younger siblings. Only my father and siblings returned. My mother promised to come back soon, but the armistice closed the way,” he recalled.

Shim was among approximately 30 veterans who joined 30 young volunteers from the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Eastern Branch and 25 staff members for a commemorative visit to White Horse Hill Observatory, the former Workers’ Party Headquarters and Cheorwon History and Culture Park.

Held under the theme ‘Love for Country, Sharing Peace, Heroic Tales: Honouring Yesterday’s Heroes Today’, the event continues an initiative launched in 2012 to honour veterans, preserve their experiences and help younger generations understand the history of war and the importance of peace.

Volunteers greeted the veterans with Korean flags, helping them from their vehicles and accompanying them throughout the visit. Some walked arm in arm with the elderly participants, while others pushed wheelchairs, carefully matching their pace.

After observing a moment of silence for those killed during the war, the group explored the memorial and historical exhibitions. One veteran paused at a photograph of the firearm he had carried during his service, recalling its considerable weight.

Volunteer Ju-yeon Lee explained that the Battle of White Horse Hill took place from 6th to 15th October 1952, involving fierce fighting between South Korean and Chinese forces. A local resident also shared memories of early settlers who cultivated farmland despite the danger of landmines, encouraging young people to visit historical sites to understand Korea's wartime history and division.

At the former Workers’ Party Headquarters, still marked by bullet holes, veterans and volunteers took commemorative photographs, sharing laughter despite the painful history surrounding them.

Volunteer Min-jun Jeong recalled accompanying 96-year-old veteran Mun-hoe Heo in a rickshaw.

“He told me, ‘I’m so happy to be looked after today. You’re like a son to me.’ Visiting places that still bear the scars of war helped me better appreciate the veterans’ sacrifices,” Jeong said.

Jin-ho Song, 95, chairman of the Nowon District branch of the Korean War Veterans Association, experienced the conflict as a middle-school student.

“It is regrettable that those who died defending our country never lived to see the prosperous Republic of Korea today,” he said, urging younger generations to understand the past and help prevent similar tragedies.

Veteran Young-woo Yoo, 93, who served in the Cheorwon region during the war, said returning to the area brought back powerful memories.

“It takes me back to those days and stirs deep emotions. The volunteers treated us so warmly that it lifted my spirits,” he said.

In-seok Park, deputy head of the Eastern Seoul Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group, said the event was especially meaningful because his own father had served in the Korean War.

“While preparing for the outing, I thought of my parents. I wanted to express my gratitude and respect to the generation that made so many sacrifices for our country,” he said.

He added that the organisation would continue supporting veterans through regular visits, wellbeing checks and companionship.

The 14-year initiative aims to honour the sacrifices of Korean War veterans, preserve their stories and strengthen connections between generations through practical acts of care and remembrance.

At a time of growing global uncertainty and interfaith tensions, a gathering in Gangwon Province, South Korea, brought religious leaders and local residents together to explore the meaning of peace and the importance of cooperation across faiths.

On 30th October 2026, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Philip Tribe, held a Bible Seminar titled “The Path to Peace: The Responsibility of Religious Leaders” at Taejang Church in Wonju. More than 300 people attended, including Christian pastors, Buddhist monks, civic representatives and local residents.

The importance of dialogue was underscored by findings from the 2026 Global Outlook Survey, conducted by the Gallup International Association among 59,636 respondents in 60 countries. The survey found that 40% expected global conflict to increase, while only 26% anticipated a more peaceful future.

Against this backdrop, participants focused on two priorities:

- Reflecting on past efforts: Reviewing peace initiatives undertaken by religious and civic leaders.

- Strengthening future cooperation: Exploring joint initiatives that cross religious boundaries and contribute to a more harmonious society.

In his keynote address, Jeong-soo Lee, director of the Philip Tribe, presented a biblical perspective on peace:

Religious leaders attending the seminar welcomed the opportunity to connect and exchange perspectives.

Venerable Beopsan, president of the executive committee of the Daegak Buddhist Jogye Order, said:

Pastor Joo-min Lee, of the Presbyterian Ministry for Immigrants, emphasised the importance of putting love into practice:

The seminar concluded with a shared recognition that, despite differences in belief and background, religious leaders have an important responsibility to promote peace and serve their communities.

Through continued dialogue grounded in biblical teachings, the Shincheonji Philip Tribe seeks to encourage mutual understanding, cooperation and lasting harmony among people of different faiths.

Source: https://vo.la/rs3cdZZ

Consistent community service can inspire lasting change. In Blantyre, Malawi, the environmental efforts of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Bartholomew Tribe (Malawi Branch) have helped strengthen cooperation between residents, local businesses and public authorities.

On 29th October 2026, 51 volunteers and students from the Zion Christian Mission Centre gathered in Blantyre for the 25th “Light and Salt Day” Environmental Cleanup Drive, collecting approximately one ton of household waste from city streets.

A significant outcome of the campaign was the Blantyre City Council’s installation of public rubbish bins across Blantyre Town. The move followed 25 consecutive cleanup campaigns by church volunteers, turning ongoing community service into practical municipal action.

The new bins provide residents and shoppers with convenient places to dispose of waste, supporting efforts to keep public spaces clean.

The campaign’s growing partnerships were evident during the 24th cleanup drive in Ndirande, where merchants, students and parliamentary officials joined volunteers.

Lastseen Jonamusi, manager of Ndirande Market under the local authority, welcomed the initiative and called for continued cooperation:

The initiative also attracted national attention. Malawi Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) interviewed volunteers during the 24th and 25th campaigns, with coverage broadcast on national television and shared through its social media channels, including Facebook and TikTok.

A Shincheonji Church representative in Malawi said the organisation intends to expand its cooperation with local authorities and businesses:

What began as regular street cleanups is helping encourage wider civic participation and practical cooperation. Through sustained service and local partnerships, Shincheonji Church aims to contribute to cleaner, stronger communities in Blantyre.

Source: https://vo.la/RfLAb3e

Between 2nd and 22nd October, the organisation conducted 11 volunteer activities across 10 branches: Donghae, Gangneung, Chuncheon, Gangseo, Gunsan, Sejong, Gwangyang, Cheonan, Gumi and Ansan.

A total of 106 volunteers participated, reaching 470 beneficiaries, including Korean War and Vietnam War veterans, members of the Defoliant Veterans Association of Korea, disabled veterans and bereaved families of fallen soldiers.

Going beyond distributing supplies, the initiative addressed veterans’ physical and emotional well-being through meals, recreational outings, home renovations and improvements to welfare facilities.

Volunteers prepared nutritious meals, snacks and potted plants for veterans, while also delivering care packages and handwritten letters of appreciation.

One recipient expressed his gratitude: “I’ll enjoy the pumpkin porridge they prepared for us because they remembered us. It is reassuring to see young people, who will shape the future, carrying out such thoughtful volunteer work.”

Others were given opportunities to enjoy autumn outings and recreational activities, including visits to scenic attractions and local markets.

One Korean War veteran who joined an excursion said: “It was wonderful to enjoy an autumn outing with the volunteers. I am especially grateful that they help elderly people like us, who might otherwise remain at home, get out and experience the outside world. I can genuinely feel their sincerity.”

The initiative also addressed everyday challenges faced by elderly veterans. Volunteers renovated a Korean War veteran’s home, replacing old security bars, painting the veranda and installing new flooring. They also removed approximately 300 litres of surrounding waste.

Elsewhere, volunteers cleaned veterans’ welfare facilities, installed signage and provided meals and health packages. They also visited veterans' homes, delivering first-aid kits, snacks and handwritten messages from young people.

An official from the Defoliant Veterans Association of Korea said: “We were deeply touched by how thoroughly the volunteers cleaned everything. We are truly grateful that they remembered us, organised this activity and even prepared a meal for us.”

One veteran who received assistance expressed his gratitude: “As time goes by, fewer people come to visit me. I am grateful that you continue to check on me and offer your support. War must never happen again.”

Through meals, outings, home improvements and personal visits, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group sought to honour veterans while addressing their everyday needs.

The activities also provided opportunities for younger volunteers and elderly veterans to share experiences, exchange encouragement and build connections across generations.

The initiative reinforced an important message: gratitude for those who sacrificed for their country should extend beyond commemorative occasions and be demonstrated through continued care, remembrance and practical support.

Source: vo.la/xIwm7uI

These were the words of Chun-ja Shim, 82, who participated in the ‘Dadaikseon’ ('More the Merrier') encouragement campaign organised by the Gangneung Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group on 26th October at Wolhwa Street in Gangneung, Gangwon Province.

‘Dadaikseon’ (多多益善), meaning ‘the more, the better’, embodies the spirit of sharing happiness and comforting others. A Dali mascot also greeted visitors with warm hugs and the message, “You are precious.”

Mi-ja Park, 64, shared her appreciation: “I spent so much of my life fulfilling my responsibilities as a daughter-in-law that I rarely had time to look after myself. Thanks to this gathering, I was able to encourage myself for the first time and appreciate how well I have lived.”

Another participant, Seong-yeon Choi, 44, reflected: “I am the most precious person in my life, yet I realise I have been living without truly recognising my own worth. Today, I feel as though I have rediscovered my true value.”

Geun-chang Lee, head of the Gangneung Branch, said the event was organised to offer residents a moment of relaxation through autumn scenery, music and encouraging messages.

Meanwhile, the Gangneung Branch plans to continue strengthening neighbourhood relationships and promoting a culture of sharing through community outreach and volunteer activities.

Source: vo.la/Mn4bNFn

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Chungju Branch brought together approximately 60 people, including members of the disabled lawn bowls club and veterans’ organisations, for a friendly lawn bowls match, meal service, and environmental cleanup on 27th October at the lawn bowls court for people with disabilities in Chungju, North Chungcheong Province.

The event was part of the group’s ‘Pinky Promise’ volunteer programme, which aims to break down barriers between people with and without disabilities through shared activities. The branch has maintained a relationship with the disabled lawn bowls club for more than 10 years.

Participants formed mixed teams and enjoyed a friendly match, with experienced players guiding first-time participants through the rules and techniques of the sport.

Reflecting on the experience, Park (68, female, Yeonsu-dong, Chungju) said:

Volunteer Yang-ji Lee (54, female, Gyohyeon-dong, Chungju), who tried the sport for the first time, shared:

A representative of the Chungju branch said, “It was meaningful to connect with members of the veterans’ organisations and the disabled lawn bowls club, and to strengthen our bonds through this event. We will continue to serve and support the local community through various volunteer activities.”

Source: vo.la/y9KDCal

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Western Busan Branch has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Yeongdo District Branch of the Korea Vietnam War Veterans Association to encourage veterans' participation in community service.

The agreement was signed at the Yeongdo District Veterans Hall in Busan on the 23rd. Both organisations pledged to share resources, coordinate personnel, and collaborate on volunteer projects.

Following the signing ceremony, volunteers presented the veterans with framed portraits honouring their service and dedication.

The two organisations also plan to hold a “Peace Heroes” photo exhibition for local residents and young people, highlighting the veterans' contributions and promoting patriotism among younger generations.

Pan-sik Lee, 78, chairman of the veterans association's Yeongdo branch, said, “Having once risked our lives to defend our country, we now want to give back to the community and serve as role models for younger generations. We are grateful to the volunteers for supporting our efforts and partnering with us.”

Yo-han Kim, vice branch manager of the Western Busan Branch, said, “It is meaningful to help veterans channel their patriotism into community service. We will continue to foster harmony and strengthen community ties through our volunteer activities.”

Source:  https://vo.la/9SixeGp

The Icheon branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group held an autumn outing with 10 Korean War veterans at Seolbong Park in Icheon on the 29th.

Ki-cheol Hong, head of the Icheon branch, and volunteers joined the veterans for a leisurely walk, enjoying the autumn scenery and taking commemorative photographs. The branch plans to frame the photos and present them to the veterans as keepsakes.

One veteran said, “I am delighted to enjoy this autumn outing. Thank you for taking the time to visit and spend time with me.”

Volunteer Hyo-soon Ahn said, “Walking and talking with the veterans reminded me that even a simple visit can bring joy to the elderly.”

An Icheon branch official said, “We must never forget the sacrifices of Korean War veterans. We will continue to bring warmth to the community through personal visits and meaningful companionship.”

Source: vo.la/rE1L8vv

The first session, led by Pyeong-su Kim, Deputy Branch Manager of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Eastern Busan Branch, addressed common misconceptions, including “Drugs have nothing to do with me” and “Would it hurt to try just once?”

Participants learned about the dangers of drug misuse, how young people may encounter illegal substances and the effects of drugs on physical and mental health. The session also highlighted the importance of using everyday medicines responsibly and following proper medical guidance.

Practical refusal strategies included responding firmly with “No, I won't do it,” leaving potentially dangerous situations and seeking help from trusted adults. Participants were also encouraged to look out for friends who might be at risk.

In the second session, participants worked together on a vision-painting project centred on drug prevention and a hopeful future. They shared ideas and painted individual sections that were assembled into larger collaborative artworks.

A total of four paintings, each measuring 1188 mm by 1260 mm, were completed. The works will be used in future drug prevention campaigns to share the young people's messages with the wider community.

One participant said, “I thought drugs only appeared in the news, but I didn’t realise they were so close to our daily lives,” adding, “If someone offers me drugs, I will definitely refuse.”

Another commented, “It was fun working with my teammates to complete the puzzle, and I felt reassured knowing that we had become one.”

A third participant said, “I feel really proud and gratified that the artwork we created together will be used in a future campaign.”

An official from the Eastern Busan Branch said, “Youth drug prevention goes beyond simply raising awareness of the dangers; it is crucial to equip young people with the confidence to make informed decisions and firmly refuse drugs in real-life situations.”

The official added, “Creating a supportive environment where peers can recognise warning signs and protect one another is also an important objective of this project.”

The branch plans to use the completed artwork in future drug prevention campaigns, extending the young people's messages throughout the local community.

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Tanzania Branch organised environmental cleanup activities to improve sanitation and protect local communities ahead of the rainy season.

The activities took place on 17th and 24th October, with volunteers clearing drainage channels and cleaning hospital surroundings in three locations: Mwanyanyamala, Gongolamboto and Kahama.

A total of 226 volunteers participated, collecting rubbish, removing accumulated mud, stones and sand from drainage channels, clearing weeds and cleaning the surrounding hospital grounds.

According to the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA), its August forecast predicted average to above-average rainfall in some regions, including the northern coast and areas around Lake Victoria, between October and December. Increased rainfall was particularly anticipated in November, raising concerns about flooding and water pollution. In response, volunteers cleared waste and sediment from drainage channels to improve water flow and sanitation around healthcare facilities.

Steven Philemon Shapa, 31, from Dar es Salaam, who participated in the initiative, said, “I am truly grateful for the opportunity to take part in volunteer work that allows me to be a light in the community and provide practical help to local residents.”

The outreach also created opportunities for further cooperation with local healthcare institutions. A hospital representative highlighted a shortage of blood supplies and requested support in organising blood donation campaigns. In response, the Tanzania Branch announced plans to organise blood donation activities across Dar es Salaam and establish long-term partnerships with relevant organisations through memorandums of understanding (MOUs).

A representative of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Tanzania Branch said, “We hope that by maintaining drainage systems and cleaning the areas surrounding hospitals, we can help residents enjoy a safer and more pleasant living environment.”

The representative added, “We will continue working with local authorities and communities to carry out sustainable volunteer initiatives that provide practical support and improve residents’ lives.”

Source: vo.la/hhyyjtA

The Seosan Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group visited 18 local Korean War veterans’ homes on the 2nd to express gratitude for their sacrifices.

The initiative, held under the theme “Let’s Remember! Our Heroes!”, was organised in collaboration with the Seosan City Chapter of the Chungnam Branch of the Korean War Veterans Association. 14 volunteers and Seong-sik Hwang, Chairman of the Special Mission Meritorious Service Association, participated, delivering samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) and yakbap (sweet rice) while checking on the veterans’ well-being.

The visits were warmly received. One veteran said, “Although I cannot hear well, I am grateful that you remembered me and came to visit me in person.” Another expressed his appreciation, saying, “Thank you for coming all the way to my house.”

At the home of a 99-year-old veteran, his family welcomed the volunteers and promised to convey their gratitude. Another veteran encouraged them to visit his office again.

A branch official said, “We must not forget that the peace and daily lives we enjoy today are built upon the sacrifices of war veterans who dedicated themselves to the nation.”

The official added that the activity’s significance lay “not merely in delivering supplies, but in visiting them in person to express our gratitude,” reaffirming the branch’s commitment to continued volunteering and support for veterans.

Source: https://tinyurl.com/265h55k7

With approximately 2000 reported cases of forced conversion involving members of Shincheonji Church of Jesus over the past two decades, concerns are mounting over whether the constitutional guarantees of religious freedom and human dignity are being adequately upheld. A “Human Rights Special” published by the South Korean daily newspaper Cheonji Ilbo examines alleged cases of illegal forced conversion conducted under the guise of “cult counselling,” while exploring the broader systemic issues and legal and institutional gaps that may allow such practices to continue.

Article 20, Paragraph 1 of the Constitution of the Republic of Korea guarantees freedom of religion to all citizens. The choice to adopt, practice, or maintain a faith is a personal decision. However, this fundamental right can be undermined when family pressure and religious conflict restrict individual freedom.

According to data from the World Solidarity for Religious Freedom and Human Rights, formerly known as the Solidarity for Victims of Religious Freedom and Human Rights, 682 cases of harm were reported between 2018 and 2022: 131 in 2018, 127 in 2019, 191 in 2020, 136 in 2021, and 97 in 2022.

Reports increased by more than 50% in 2020, coinciding with the COVID-19 outbreak and heightened public criticism of Shincheonji. These circumstances raise concerns that social tensions contributed to family pressure on church members and attempts to force them to abandon their faith. Although reports subsequently declined, cases continued each year.

Reported forced conversion methods extend beyond verbal persuasion. Cumulative figures from 2003 to May 2022, including duplicate counts across categories, recorded 1237 cases of confinement, 985 cases of kidnapping, and 861 cases of assault. The data also included 1338 cases involving forced leave from school or work, 43 cases of forced divorce, 13 cases of involuntary psychiatric hospitalisation, and five reported deaths.

Women accounted for 74% of reported victims. People in their 20s represented 72%, while those in their 30s accounted for 13%, together comprising 85% of the total.

In 2022, women accounted for 92 of the 97 reported victims. Women in their 20s and 30s represented 85.6% of all cases that year. In 2025, a further 58 cases of harm, including one death, were recorded.

According to a document titled 2025 Status of Damages Caused by Forced Conversion, allegations of coercion and restrictions on personal freedom continued last year.

Park, a 24-year-old woman from Chungju, North Chungcheong Province, reportedly said her parents followed her before detaining her at their home for three days, subjecting her to verbal abuse and pressuring her to abandon her faith.

Choi, a 32-year-old woman from Daegu, alleged that family pressure forced her to change residences. She also reportedly faced demands to pay one million won monthly on the condition that she maintain her faith, alongside restrictions including mobile phone inspections and real-time location tracking.

Kim, a 34-year-old man from Gumi, North Gyeongsang Province, reportedly experienced financial and physical pressure involving family relationships and property matters.

These accounts are based on victims' statements and require independent investigation and judicial verification. However, they raise concerns about coercion and restrictions on individual freedom.

In June 2021, a man in his 20s was reportedly rescued by police and firefighters from an officetel in Suyeong District, Busan, after being held for 18 days. His parents had allegedly taken away his mobile phone.

Another widely reported case involved Ji-in Gu, a former Shincheonji member who died in 2018 after reportedly experiencing violence and pressure from her parents during forced conversion counselling. Her death prompted public concern about coercive conversion practices.

Although public attitudes towards Shincheonji remain divided, criticism of a religious organisation or its teachings does not justify unlawful confinement, assault, kidnapping, or intimidation.

The reported cases highlight the need to distinguish family or religious disagreements from conduct that may violate the law. Freedom of religion includes the right to choose one's beliefs without coercion, and alleged violations should be investigated regardless of the religious affiliation involved.

Sang-kyum Kim, a constitutional law scholar and professor at Dongguk University, emphasised that forcing individuals to abandon their faith or adopt another religion may violate constitutionally protected religious freedom.

“Acts of rejecting faith or forcing conversion to another religion on the grounds of believing in a specific religion directly infringe upon the freedom of religion guaranteed by the Constitution,” Kim said, adding that coercive conduct may also be punishable under the Criminal Act.

He explained that family members, religious leaders, or others who engage in coercion or instigate unlawful acts may face criminal liability where legal requirements are met. Kim urged victims to preserve evidence, including statements, recordings, and relevant documents, and report suspected violations to investigative authorities.

He also stressed that public officials must remain religiously neutral and enforce the law impartially, regardless of an individual's faith.

“Disliking a specific religion and committing crimes against its followers are completely different issues,” Kim said, calling for fair investigations and appropriate legal consequences in accordance with the law.