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.

According to a 2025 analysis by the Policy Research Institute of the Presbyterian Church of Korea (PCK), the proportion of churchgoers in their 20s and 30s fell from 40% in 2012 to around 20% in 2023. A 2024 survey also found that 44% of Christians in their 20s were “Canaan Christians”—those who no longer attend church.

Meanwhile, Shincheonji has reported large numbers of graduates from its Zion Christian Mission Centre. In 2019, a survey of 1000 graduates found that 67% were in their 20s and 30s. The church also reported that 99.2% of graduates surveyed that year felt their understanding of the Bible had improved.

Shincheonji attributes its appeal to its systematic teaching of biblical parables and prophecies, particularly the Book of Revelation. In another internal survey of people scheduled to graduate in 2025, 97.9% reportedly expressed satisfaction with changes in their lives after completing the programme.

These figures come from Shincheonji’s own surveys and should not be taken as representative of all its members or as independent proof of its overall growth. Nevertheless, they raise an important question: What are young people seeking from religious education that they feel is missing elsewhere?

Regardless of theological differences, established churches may benefit from reflecting on whether they are adequately addressing young people’s questions about the Bible, faith and the meaning of life.

The challenge facing the Korean church is not simply how to replace retiring pastors or maintain membership numbers. It is also how to understand why younger generations are leaving—and why some are seeking answers through Shincheonji’s Bible education programs.

Perhaps the deeper issue is not only an ageing congregation, but also whether established churches are meeting the spiritual needs of the next generation.

Source: https://www.newscj.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=3441392

With Police Day approaching on the 21st, the Children's Group of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Philip Tribe, Sokcho Church, spent their Sunday service on the 18th learning about the important role police officers play in keeping their communities safe.

The special activity gave the children an opportunity to understand the work officers do every day and find their own ways to express appreciation for their service.

The session began with a lesson led by a representative from the church's public relations department. Through child-friendly explanations, the children learned about police officers' responsibilities, including patrolling neighbourhoods, protecting citizens, and responding to emergencies.

They also learned how to call 112 in an emergency, gaining practical knowledge they could use in everyday life.

As they listened, the children discovered how police officers help maintain peace and safety, even when their efforts go unnoticed.

After the lesson, the children put what they had learned into practice by writing letters and creating colourful drawings for police officers.

Each child expressed their thoughts in a personal way, carefully choosing words or illustrations to convey their appreciation. Their creations reflected both their creativity and their growing understanding of the people who help protect their community.

The activity also encouraged the children to turn their thoughts into action by sharing kind words with those who serve others.

The children's reflections offered a glimpse into what they had learned.

Lee, a fifth-grade (Year 6) boy, said he would always appreciate the officers' efforts to protect the public.

Choi, a fourth-grade boy, shared that he had realised people can live safely thanks to police officers. He added that he would thank an officer if he met one on the street.

Jeong, a second-year student, said she felt happy knowing that police officers catch criminals and protect people. Han, a third-grade boy, thanked officers for patrolling day and night and wished them continued good health.

For some children, the lesson brought a new perspective. Yeo, a first-grade boy, said he had realised how essential police officers are to society, while Kim, a seven-year-old girl, explained that she had worked hard to express her feelings through her drawing.

Though their words differed, the children shared a common understanding of the importance of police officers and the work they do.

The activity was more than a Police Day celebration. It helped the children connect what they learned with their daily lives, recognising the people who contribute to their safety and well-being.

A representative from the Children's Ministry explained that the activity was designed to help children recognise the many people around them who deserve appreciation. The representative also expressed hope that experiences like this would nurture grateful hearts and encourage the children to grow in love through their faith.

As Police Day approaches, the children's letters and drawings offer a simple reminder that recognising the efforts of others can begin at any age.

To all the police officers working to keep our communities safe, thank you for your dedication. We wish you safety and good health every day!

Source: vo.la/4M3Jrg8

Il-ja Kim, 85, from Gwangmyeong, Gyeonggi Province, looks forward to volunteers who visit three times a week. Alongside monitoring her health, they provide companionship and homemade side dishes, bringing warmth to her daily life.

As the number of older adults living alone grows, community-based care is increasingly important in addressing needs beyond medical treatment.

Since August last year, the Bartholomew Tribe of Shincheonji Church of Jesus has operated a Health Support Programme. Initially launched at Yeongdeungpo Church, it has expanded to five churches, involving approximately 400 participants and 70 volunteers.

Medical staff provide blood pressure and blood glucose checks, basic dementia screenings, and health consultations. At Gwangmyeong Church, 40 volunteers support 150 seniors through home visits, health monitoring, companionship, and meal preparation.

Myeong-ja Ba, 83, from Cheolsan-dong, shared how the programme has helped her manage high blood pressure.

“It can sometimes be difficult to visit the hospital on weekends, but having my blood pressure checked regularly at the church helps me keep track of my health,” she said. “I can also feel the sincerity and care that go into preparing side dishes with my health in mind.”

Source: vo.la/dVwp0O6

The Chungju and Nonsan branches of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group organised customised volunteer activities to support athletes with disabilities, help prepare lawn bowls stadiums for competition, and strengthen community ties.

Through meal sharing, hands-on programmes, and environmental cleanup, volunteers provided practical assistance while building meaningful relationships with athletes.

On the 8th, the Chungju Branch held its ‘Pinky Promise’ volunteer activity at the disabled lawn bowls stadium in Chungju, North Chungcheong Province. Volunteers served samgyetang, a traditional Korean chicken soup, to encourage athletes ahead of competition and cleaned the surrounding areas to create a more pleasant environment.

Sang-yong Lee, 62, president of the Chungbuk Lawn Bowls Federation for the Disabled, said, “I am grateful for the nourishing samgyetang.”

He added, “I offered Jeju tangerines as a token of appreciation for the kindness shown to us every year. I hope we can continue working together on meaningful activities in the future.”

The Nonsan Branch recently held its regular ‘Pinky Promise’ volunteer programme at the Nonsan Lawn Bowls Association for the Disabled, with 12 volunteers participating. Building on two years of stadium maintenance activities, the branch expanded its programme in response to athletes’ requests.

Activities included health clapping exercises, hand massages, and clay-making designed to encourage finger movement. Volunteers and athletes participated together, sharing conversations and laughter while strengthening their connections.

Ji-hoon Park, head of the Nonsan Branch, said, “Through volunteering in the local community, I hope to share warm and meaningful moments with athletes with disabilities.”

He added, “We will continue to organise a variety of activities and put the spirit of sharing into practice throughout the community.”

The Chuncheon Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group conducted its “Let Nature Be Green” volunteer activity on the 16th in Hakgok-ri, Dongnae-myeon, Chuncheon-si, focusing on environmental cleanup and roadside reflector maintenance.

Approximately 50 volunteers, divided into three groups, cleaned major roadsides and alleyways, collecting around 300 litres of household waste, including cigarette butts, discarded banners, and plastic bottles. They also removed dust and contaminants from roadside reflectors to improve visibility and help create safer roads for residents.

The initiative is part of the organisation’s “Let Nature Be Green” programme, which promotes environmental protection through activities such as wetland conservation, disaster recovery, community cleanups, and the creation of flower paths.

Sang-yoon Park, a 47-year-old volunteer from Hupyeong-dong, Chuncheon, said, “I felt a sense of fulfilment because the elderly people I met during the activity expressed gratitude and shared warm conversations with me.” She added that seeing the clean surroundings made her proud and that it was meaningful to see how a small act could bring great joy.

Jeong-hee Gong, vice branch manager of the Chuncheon Branch, said, “We will continue to work towards creating a safe and comfortable living environment for residents through various volunteer activities that benefit the local community.”

Source: vo.la/FjwdKtQ

The Donghae Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group conducted its “Heroic Tales” volunteer initiative on the 10th and 14th, honouring the sacrifices and contributions of national merit recipients.

During the initiative, branch representatives met with leaders of veterans’ organisations to hear firsthand accounts of those who dedicated themselves to the nation. They also called for security education to help strengthen national security awareness among young people.

The initiative aimed to express gratitude to veterans of the Korean and Vietnam wars for their dedication to the nation and peace, while bringing comfort and companionship to those experiencing social isolation.

On the 14th, volunteers visited the Donghae City Veterans Welfare Centre and shared pumpkin porridge, rice cakes, and fruit with 30 members.

Preparations began the day before, with volunteers carefully preparing ingredients for the pumpkin porridge. On the day of the visit, they started cooking early in the morning to ensure the meals were freshly prepared and delivered with care.

Earlier, on the 10th, volunteers organised an outing to Jeongseon Weekend Market for four elderly national merit recipients. The participants enjoyed exploring the traditional market, sharing lunch, taking part in recreational activities, and singing together. The outing provided an opportunity to enjoy a change of scenery, build connections, and share meaningful moments.

One elderly veteran who joined the outing said, “This was a truly meaningful experience,” adding, “I hope another event can be arranged so that more members will have the opportunity to participate.”

The Donghae Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group is conducting cultural, leisure, and recreational activities for national merit recipients who are members of the Veterans Hall in Jeongseon on 10th October.

The chairman of the Donghae City Branch of the Association of Meritorious Service Medal Recipients of the Republic of Korea expressed his appreciation, saying, “I felt deeply moved and grateful to see the Donghae Branch express its appreciation towards those who have dedicated themselves to the nation and peace.”

Joo-myung Yoon, head of the Donghae Branch, said, “We will continue listening to the stories and needs of those who have dedicated themselves to our nation and organise tailored volunteer activities that provide practical and meaningful support.”

Source: vo.la/B4AlBIL

The Gangseo Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group distributed 25 potted chrysanthemums to members of the Vietnam War Veterans Association’s Gangseo Branch earlier this week, near Balsan Station in Gangseo District, Seoul.

The activity was part of the Heroic Tales veterans’ welfare project, which aims to express gratitude for veterans’ service and strengthen relationships through ongoing community engagement.

As part of its monthly Dadaikseon ('More the Better') initiative, the volunteer group selected chrysanthemums for their seasonal appeal and ease of care. Volunteers distributed the flowers following a joint neighbourhood cleanup and provided guidance on watering, sunlight, and plant maintenance.

One recipient remarked, “As I carefully grow and tend to my plants, I often reflect on the preciousness of life.”

Source: vo.la/ToV3Zsl

International religious scholars and human rights advocates are urging the South Korean judiciary to consider conditional release, citing Chairman Lee’s advanced age, health concerns, and the potentially lengthy trial.

According to Shincheonji Church of Jesus, 18 international religious scholars plan to submit a joint petition requesting bail. The signatories include Professor Eileen Barker of the London School of Economics, Professor Emeritus J. Gordon Melton of Baylor University, and Massimo Introvigne, director of  Center for Studies on New Religions (CESNUR). The petition follows the CESNUR international conference held in Taiwan from 10th to 12th October.

The scholars expressed concern that repeated short-term extensions of the detention suspension could disrupt medical treatment and trial preparation. They called for arrangements that would allow Chairman Lee to attend court while receiving appropriate medical care.

Calls for conditional release have also come from legal professionals and human rights organisations. Ugandan lawyer and human rights activist Hamza Sekide proposed alternatives such as regular reporting requirements and surrendering travel documents.

Hans Noot, deputy director of Human Rights Without Frontiers, also called for detention to be reassessed and legally available alternatives to be considered. Bishop Elias Elijah Changa of Zambia proposed release subject to residential restrictions and medical care, while pastors from five countries, including Liberia, urged consideration of both criminal proceedings and religious freedom.

In September, the French human rights organisation Coalition for Freedom of Conscience (CAP-LC) called for an independent medical assessment and a review of alternatives to detention during the 63rd session of the United Nations Human Rights Council.

At a preliminary hearing on 6th October, the 27th Criminal Division of the Seoul Central District Court estimated that the trial could take approximately a year, even with weekly hearings, given the roughly 190 requested witnesses.

Chairman Lee’s legal team requested bail, arguing that he requires continued treatment and care following surgery. The court deferred its decision and extended the suspension of the arrest warrant until 6th November.

The suspension has reportedly been extended four times, with extensions ranging from one day to one month. On 11th September, Chairman Lee was returned to detention after a further extension was denied.

Supporters have cited a 2020 ruling in which the Suwon District Court granted Chairman Lee bail while he faced charges of obstructing infectious disease control measures. Conditions included a 100 million won bond, residence restrictions, and electronic monitoring. The court considered his health and record of attending proceedings. The Supreme Court subsequently upheld his acquittal on those charges.

Article 98 of South Korea’s Criminal Procedure Act allows conditions such as residence restrictions, bail payments, and restrictions on overseas travel to help ensure defendants attend court.

However, international petitions and previous rulings do not determine the outcome of the current case. The court must independently assess Chairman Lee’s health, the risk of flight, potential evidence-related concerns, and the circumstances of the proceedings.

With the suspension set to expire on 6th November, attention remains focused on how the court will balance health concerns against the requirements of the ongoing trial when deciding whether to grant bail.

The Chungju Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group conducted a wildfire prevention campaign and environmental cleanup at Hoamji Ecological Park in Chungju, North Chungcheong Province, on 16th October. The activities were part of its regular environmental initiative, Let Nature Be Green, ahead of Mountain Day on 18th October.

During the campaign, volunteers informed park visitors about autumn wildfire prevention guidelines, including avoiding restricted areas and closed trails, refraining from burning agricultural waste or rubbish, not smoking while hiking, and avoiding cooking or camping outside designated areas.

To encourage environmental awareness, volunteers also held a Scandia moss pot-making activity and distributed 50 flower pots. Participants received commemorative Polaroid photos. Volunteers subsequently collected approximately 130 litres of rubbish from Hoamji Ecological Park and the nearby Hoam-dong commercial district, helping create a cleaner environment for residents and visitors.

A 30-year-old female resident of Hoam-dong who participated in the campaign said, “Through this wildfire prevention campaign, I realised that even a moment of carelessness can lead to a major disaster, which made me more vigilant. I will share the importance of wildfire prevention with those around me and continue to remain mindful of protecting our forests.”

Eun-ja Lee, 54, a resident of Yongsan-dong who joined the cleanup, said, “Participating in the cleanup made me realise how small thoughts like ‘It’s okay if I leave just one piece of rubbish’ can add up and create a much bigger problem. I want to continue taking small steps myself and contribute to keeping Chungju clean.”

The Chungju Branch plans to continue working with the local community to promote forest conservation and environmental protection, encouraging greater citizen participation and a sustainable environmental culture.

Meanwhile, Let Nature Be Green is an environmental volunteer initiative focused on preserving nature for future generations through wetland conservation, disaster recovery, cleanup activities around public facilities and cultural heritage sites, environmental awareness campaigns, and flower planting in areas affected by illegal dumping.

Source: vo.la/kdIh20O