Despite constitutional guarantees of religious freedom in South Korea, allegations of coercive conversion and human rights violations continue to emerge in 2026. Concerns involving family pressure, alleged unlawful confinement and external conversion counsellors, particularly in cases involving Shincheonji Church of Jesus members, have also reached international human rights forums.

The European Council for Freedom of Conscience (CAP-LC), an NGO holding special consultative status with the UN Economic and Social Council, raised concerns about coercive conversion in South Korea through submissions to the UN Human Rights Council in 2019 and 2022.

Its statements cited the deaths of Sun-hwa Kim (2007) and Ji-in Gu (2018), urging the Korean government to investigate and protect religious minorities. CAP-LC also called for effective measures to prevent and punish religiously motivated crimes.

Although these were NGO submissions rather than official UN findings or resolutions, they brought concerns about religious freedom in Korea into international discussions.

Dr Massimo Introvigne, an Italian sociologist of religion and director of the Centre for Studies on New Religions (CESNUR), has highlighted human rights concerns affecting religious minorities in Korea.

At a 7th August press conference at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents’ Club, attended by international organisations including Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF), CAP-LC and CESNUR, he addressed religious hostility and institutional discrimination.

According to his analysis published in Bitter Winter, human rights activists had documented 2205 alleged coercive conversion cases involving Shincheonji members between 2003 and October 15 of the reporting year.

The latest figures included 55 cases in 2026, of which 42 involved women and 17 included allegations of physical confinement. Restrictions on external communication and verbal abuse were each reported in 52 cases.

These figures are independently compiled by human rights activists and are not verified government crime statistics. Nevertheless, the continued reports highlight the need for effective victim protection.

A person in their 20s, identified as A, alleged that family members pressured them to abandon their Shincheonji faith after contacting officials at a religious counselling centre.

A said they were repeatedly asked to watch videos criticising the church, sign a withdrawal declaration and attend further conversion sessions.

“I simply chose my religion, but my family placed greater trust in the counselling centre than in me. I was even told that we could no longer live together unless I signed a declaration withdrawing my faith,” A said.

Legal precedents in the United States and Japan have addressed unlawful confinement linked to religious conversion.

In Eilers v. Coy (1984), a US federal court recognised the unlawful confinement of an adult believer. In Japan, the Tokyo High Court recognised liability in the Toru Goto confinement case in 2014, with the Supreme Court upholding the relevant judgment in 2015.

South Korea also criminalises unlawful confinement and coercion. However, concerns remain about investigating alleged involvement by family members and external counsellors.

The World Solidarity for Religious Freedom and Human Rights (WSH), which has raised concerns about religious minorities in Korea, is calling on the National Human Rights Commission of Korea to investigate allegations of coercive conversion and strengthen institutional protections.

Article 19 of the National Human Rights Commission Act authorises the Commission to investigate human rights conditions and recommend policy and institutional improvements.

“With appeals for help continuing this year, the extent and circumstances of the alleged violations must be established through an independent and objective investigation,” the WSH official said.

The official stressed that an adult's right to religious self-determination must be respected, adding that forced conversion should not be dismissed as a private family matter. Allegations of pressure, confinement and threats involving external counselling officials should also be thoroughly investigated.

“Protecting the religious freedom of minorities is not about favouring any particular religion; it is about upholding the fundamental rights guaranteed to every citizen by the Constitution,” the official emphasised.

The official also warned that political rhetoric stigmatising particular religious groups could deepen prejudice and discrimination, urging the Commission to recommend measures that safeguard religious freedom and the constitutional separation of religion and state.

The official concluded: “Victims' appeals' must no longer go unheard. The National Human Rights Commission and relevant authorities must take concrete action to ensure that the constitutional guarantee of religious freedom is upheld in people's everyday lives.”

Source: vo.la/NI5ItAL

Article 20 of the Constitution of the Republic of Korea guarantees individuals the freedom to choose and maintain their religious beliefs without coercion. Yet testimonies from Shincheonji members who experienced so-called “cult counselling” raise serious questions about whether this fundamental right has been respected.

Victims describe an alleged “illegal conversion programme” that exploited public hostility towards Shincheonji and families’ fears that loved ones had joined a heretical group. According to their accounts, individuals were forcibly taken, confined and pressured to renounce their faith, while families were encouraged to participate in organised protests.

Critics argue that the involvement of cult counselling centres in organising anti-Shincheonji activities has become a profit-making operation, with families facing substantial and hidden counselling-related costs.

The National Association of Victims of Religious Cults (NAVRC) describes itself as an organisation representing families who believe Shincheonji has harmed their loved ones. However, allegations of close links between the association and the conversion activities of cult counselling centres warrant scrutiny.

According to media reports and victim testimonies, some families, following guidance from counselling centres, have taken Shincheonji members away against their will and brought them to conversion programmes.

Victims describe being confined in isolated locations, prevented from communicating freely and pressured into signing counselling consent forms.

Young people and female believers were reportedly among the primary targets. In some cases, family relationships—the very relationships expected to provide safety and support—were allegedly used as instruments of coercion, undermining individuals’ autonomy and fundamental rights.

Questions have also been raised about the role of cult counselling centre officials in organising anti-Shincheonji demonstrations under the banner of victim support.

It has been reported by the domestic newspaper and online media outlet Cheonji Ilbo (Cheonkji Daily) that the National Alliance for Countermeasures Against Shincheonji (Shindaeyeon), involving Hyun-wook Shin, director of the Guri Heresy Counselling Centre, issued detailed instructions to individual protesters, including designated locations, times and routes.

Victim testimonies further suggest that when counselling efforts failed, families were encouraged to organise individual or group protests. These allegations raise questions about whether the demonstrations were genuinely spontaneous civic actions or part of a coordinated strategy.

In a recent interview with a Christian media outlet, Director Shin Hyun-wook reportedly encouraged parents whose children attend Shincheonji to “make sure to receive counselling on cults first and then go out to carry out a one-person protest.”

Allegations have repeatedly emerged that some counselling centres demand substantial payments from distressed families, including conversion counselling fees, educational costs, venue rental charges, sponsorships and thank-you offerings.

Although membership fees were reportedly collected from participants in previous anti-Shincheonji protests, the exchange of money alone does not establish illegal profit-making. Nevertheless, questions remain about who received the funds, how they were used and whether financial arrangements were connected to coercive practices.

Critics argue that the combination of opaque financial transactions and alleged human rights violations warrants a thorough investigation.

Victims also claim that families were left carrying the legal risks and liabilities arising from forced conversion, while those who allegedly organised the activities avoided accountability. They are calling for an investigation into whether family distress was exploited for financial gain.

The Constitution of the Republic of Korea protects personal liberty (Article 12), freedom of conscience (Article 19) and freedom of religion (Article 20). These protections apply to everyone, regardless of public opinion about their religious affiliation.

If individuals were forcibly detained, threatened or coerced into changing their beliefs, such conduct may constitute criminal offences, including unlawful arrest and confinement under Article 276 and coercion under Article 324 of the Criminal Act. Those who instigated such acts may also face liability under Article 31.

Religious affiliation does not exempt anyone from constitutional protection, nor does it justify violations of fundamental rights.

Dr Massimo Introvigne, an internationally recognised religious scholar and director of the Centre for Studies on New Religions (CESNUR), has described a three-stage process through which religious minorities can become targets of persecution: the construction of negative media narratives (intolerance), administrative and judicial discrimination, and ultimately social exclusion and physical violence (persecution).

The treatment of Shincheonji raises concerns about whether elements of this pattern are also present in South Korean society. Critics point to negative media coverage, hostility from some established religious groups and alleged abuses carried out under the guise of “cult counselling.”

For members who have already been publicly stigmatised, even basic human rights can appear to be treated as privileges rather than constitutional guarantees. This perception risks normalising coercion and discrimination.

An official from the World Solidarity for Religious Freedom and Human Rights (RSPR) emphasised:

The official added: “We call for severe punishment for ‘unlawful forced conversion’, which violates the fundamental rights guaranteed to individuals by the Constitution, and urge the authorities to protect the human rights of Shincheonji believers who uphold and abide by the Constitution.”

Ultimately, freedom of religion must be protected equally for all. Allegations of forced conversion, unlawful confinement and financial exploitation deserve impartial investigation, regardless of the religious group involved.

Honouring those who served the nation means more than remembering their sacrifices. As veterans grow older, practical assistance, emotional support, and efforts to preserve their wartime experiences are becoming increasingly important.

From the 20th to the 29th of last month, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group carried out veterans' welfare activities through 10 branches nationwide. A total of 183 volunteers participated, expressing gratitude and respect to 150 people, including war veterans, recipients of national merit recognition, and their families.

The Yangpyeong, Mokpo, and Haenam branches visited veterans' homes to provide practical assistance.

In Yangpyeong, volunteers improved insulation in three homes to help residents prepare for winter. In Mokpo, they replaced light bulbs, switches, and door handles, cleaned homes, and delivered winter supplies and first-aid kits. They also organised dementia prevention and companionship activities. The Haenam Branch helped clean the homes of two descendants of Korean War veterans and delivered health kits.

One veteran in Yangpyeong expressed gratitude, saying, “Thanks to the support, I will be able to stay warm this winter.” A recipient of national merit recognition in Mokpo also expressed appreciation, saying, “Knowing that people remember us and take the time to visit gives us great strength.”

Several branches organised outings and activities to provide veterans with opportunities for companionship and meaningful experiences.

The Gwangju and Icheon branches organised autumn outings and park visits for veterans, while the Wonju Branch supported 25 veterans in attending a memorial service in Cheorwon. The Eastern Seoul Branch took 30 veterans and family members to historical sites, including the White Horse Hill Observatory, documenting their wartime stories through photographs. Incheon volunteers also visited a war memorial with veterans, cleaned the surrounding area, and recorded their experiences through interviews and photographs.

A participant in the Gwangju outing expressed his happiness, saying, “It had been a long time since I felt so young and refreshed.” A veteran who took part in the Eastern Seoul Branch's activities also expressed his gratitude, describing the experience as "the happiest day of my life."

The Pohang Branch organised a public campaign ahead of Dokdo Day to honour the 33 members of the Dokdo Volunteer Defense Corps. Eleven volunteers and 102 citizens participated, learning about their contributions and writing letters of gratitude to the bereaved families.

Meanwhile, the Western Busan Branch signed a social contribution agreement with the Yeongdo District Branch of the Vietnam War Veterans Association. It also presented 26 veterans with digitally restored photographs showing their younger appearances, created using generative AI technology.

Through these initiatives, the Shincheonji Volunteer Corps demonstrated its commitment to supporting veterans through practical assistance, emotional care, and historical preservation. The activities highlighted that honouring past sacrifices should go beyond remembrance and continue through meaningful actions of gratitude and respect today.

Source: vo.la/e8Dc2si

As South Korea's population ages, social interaction and leisure activities are becoming increasingly important. According to the 2026 Statistics on the Elderly, people aged 65 and over account for 21.6% of the national population. Meanwhile, 43.4% of older respondents in the 2025 Social Survey said they usually feel lonely.

To combat social isolation, the John Tribe of Shincheonji Church of Jesus (hereafter Shincheonji John Tribe) operates hobby clubs at five churches in Gwacheon, Gangdong, Icheon, Wangsimni and Hanam.

Established in 2017, the Silver Taekwondo Club at Shincheonji Gwacheon Church meets twice a week, promoting fitness, balance and flexibility. Despite a pause during the COVID-19 pandemic, members resumed competitions in 2021, winning 15 gold, four silver and 11 bronze medals last year.

Jeong-gi Kim, who previously enjoyed various sports, said, “I felt my body becoming stiffer as I got older, but since taking up Taekwondo, I have become much more flexible. Taekwondo is a source of vitality for me.”

Shincheonji Gangdong Church also established a Taekwondo club in 2019, winning first place overall at a competition in 2023. The club is currently undergoing reorganisation.

At Shincheonji Hanam Church, 14 members established a senior vocal ensemble last May. Meeting every Tuesday, they share lunch and practise songs and hymns. Their first performance took place on 20th September.

Soon-ok Lee (74) said, “It was a precious opportunity to share our hearts and grow closer to church members with whom we had previously felt awkward, as we sang together.”

Sun-yeon Kim (80) added, “I feel like I am gradually becoming more confident with continued practice. I look forward to our sessions because I enjoy singing and sharing my thoughts.”

Meanwhile, Shincheonji Wangsimni Church operates a weekly choir with 27 members.

Eun-suk Jeong (70) said, “Singing regularly refreshes my heart and helps relieve stress.” She added, “When people from different backgrounds come together to sing with one voice, I feel that our hearts are becoming one.”

At Shincheonji Icheon Church, five or six advisory council members have gathered after worship services since the beginning of the year to knit small items, including mobile phone bags and keyrings, while sharing conversations.

Club president Eun-mi Shin (pseudonym) said, “I felt stifled staying at home, so it was lovely to get out, see familiar faces and knit together. I enjoy it even when the finished product isn't perfect.”

An official from Shincheonji John Tribe said, “Club activities provide opportunities for leisure and learning, while also helping people maintain existing relationships and build new connections. More important than the scale or outcomes of these activities is the process of spending time together and communicating with one another.”

Amid harvest-season labour shortages caused by an ageing rural population and declining youth numbers, 42 university student volunteers from the Daegu Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group visited farms in Cheongdo, North Gyeongsang Province, on the 6th to support local farmers.

The volunteers harvested 50 boxes of persimmons and threshed 30 kg of sesame seeds, helping farmers struggling with labour shortages and injuries.

One farmer said, “My broken ribs made it difficult even to thresh sesame seeds. I am truly grateful that you travelled all the way to the countryside to help.”

Another farm representative added, “We need extra hands during harvest season, so we greatly appreciate your help harvesting persimmons.”

The initiative highlighted how youth volunteering can address rural labour shortages and support local communities. The Daegu Branch plans to continue its community partnerships and volunteer activities.

Source: vo.la/54IBtHn

Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony John Tribe, Pyeongtaek Church (hereafter Shincheonji Pyeongtaek Church) visited Anjung Fire Station and Pyeongtaek Fire Station on the 8th and 9th to honour firefighters in commemoration of the 64th Firefighters' Day.

The initiative recognised firefighters' dedication to protecting lives and public safety while promoting a culture of gratitude and respect within the community.

Participants wore headbands bearing messages of appreciation, encouraged citizens and local merchants to support firefighters, and collected handwritten messages for a commemorative board. They also prepared snack kits for 30 firefighters.

The firefighters warmly welcomed the visitors and invited them to join the Firefighters' Day celebrations at the station. Participants presented the message board and snack kits as tokens of appreciation.

A fire station official said, “Thank you for travelling all the way to Anjung to deliver the snack kits. We sincerely appreciate your interest in and support for our firefighters.”

A representative of Shincheonji Pyeongtaek Church said, “We organised this initiative to express our gratitude to firefighters who work tirelessly to protect the public. We will continue to strengthen our community outreach through activities that promote sharing, engagement and communication with local residents.”

Source: https://tinyurl.com/mrmh3ru4

Downtown Seomyeon in Busan recently became the setting for a heartwarming display of volunteer spirit. Amid the district's lively atmosphere and bustling crowds, a group of people wearing bright yellow vests caught the attention of passers-by. Working together with a clear sense of purpose, they were helping to keep the streets clean. The words "Shincheonji Volunteer Group" printed on the backs of their vests identified the volunteers and their organisation.

Volunteers from the Western and Eastern Busan branches of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group were carrying out a street clean-up campaign, collecting litter from pavements and less visible corners throughout Seomyeon.

Their efforts echoed similar activities undertaken near local neighbourhoods last summer. Just before the rainy season, volunteers had cleared dirt and debris from storm drains to help prevent flooding. Despite the intense summer heat, they continued working enthusiastically and without complaint, leaving a lasting impression on those who witnessed their dedication.

As one of Busan's busiest commercial districts, Seomyeon regularly attracts large crowds, and litter such as cigarette butts, disposable coffee cups and plastic bags can easily accumulate along its streets. However, the volunteers approached the task with enthusiasm and determination. Equipped with litter pickers and rubbish bags, they worked diligently, clearing the streets with genuine smiles.

The amount of rubbish collected was particularly striking. After cleaning just one relatively short stretch of street, they had filled four large 75-litre pay-as-you-throw rubbish bags. The sight highlighted the scale of the litter problem in busy urban areas and the importance of tackling the often-overlooked task of keeping public spaces clean.

The volunteers' efforts also offered an opportunity to reflect on everyday habits and environmental responsibility. Excessive reliance on disposable products and careless littering are reminders of the need for greater awareness and consideration of the environment.

The transformation of an untidy stretch of street into a cleaner, more welcoming space in such a short time was an uplifting sight. The initiative demonstrated how even small acts of service can make a meaningful difference to the places where people live and work.

Activities such as this show how collective action and a willingness to serve can create cleaner, brighter surroundings. Similar volunteer initiatives will hopefully continue across Busan and throughout the country. After all, maintaining a cleaner environment is a shared responsibility, and positive change often begins with people willing to take the first step.

Source: vo.la/YnEZ3YF

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group is bringing warmth to local communities through tailored volunteer activities supporting senior citizens, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.

From helping neighbours in need to supporting disaster recovery, the organisation works across nine key areas, including environmental protection, veterans' support, emotional well-being, and cultural activities.

Since 2013, it has received a cumulative 655 awards, plaques of appreciation, and commendations from local governments and various organisations, reflecting its longstanding commitment to community service.

Senior care remains a key focus. During the first half of this year (January–June), 974 volunteers participated in 143 days of activities, reaching 3916 elderly residents.

The Cheongpyeong Branch has supported local seniors through War Memorial cleanups, flood-damaged senior center restoration, and ongoing emotional and health-related care.

The organisation also holds cultural events to reduce isolation among older residents. Last year's Parents' Day "Filial Piety Festival," organised by the Daegu Branch in Cheongdo-gun, welcomed more than 600 seniors with traditional music and performances.

Sang-gyu Im, head of Geumgong-ri, praised it as "a large-scale filial piety festival rarely seen in the region."

In June, the Incheon Federation hosted the "Patriotism and Veterans' Filial Piety Festival," bringing together 148 veterans and seniors for traditional performances and Korean flags featuring children's handprints.

The volunteer group has also made a lasting contribution to environmental protection. Between 2015 and 2026, approximately 10 branches nationwide received around 15 environmental awards and plaques of appreciation.

Since 2014, the Gumi Branch has participated in the "One Company, One River Love Campaign," conducting monthly cleanups along a one-kilometre stretch of Gumi Stream. Over the past decade, approximately 2300 volunteers have collected around 40,000 litres of waste.

Following Typhoon Hinnamnor in 2022, the Pohang Branch mobilised 212 volunteers to help flood-affected residents around Duho General Market by removing mud and cleaning damaged furniture. The branch received recognition at the 2022 Pohang City Volunteer Conference and a commendation from the Mayor of Pohang.

Support for people with disabilities is another important area. Since 2014, the organisation has received 53 plaques of appreciation and commendations from disability-related institutions. In the first half of this year alone, 498 volunteers provided living environment improvements and emotional support to 2011 people with disabilities over 63 days.

The organisation also works closely with veterans' and community groups. Between November 2024 and December 2025, the Jeonju Branch received eight awards and commendations from organisations including the Korean War Veterans Association and the Jeonju Regional Children's Center.

During the first half of this year, 80 branches nationwide conducted 654 volunteer activities, reaching 51,868 beneficiaries.

An official from the Shincheonji Volunteer Group said, “We are grateful that the dedication of volunteers nationwide, united by a shared commitment to restoring the daily lives of marginalised neighbours and bringing warmth to local communities, has been recognised through these awards and achievement.”

The official added, “Moving forward, we will go beyond one-time assistance and remain committed to providing meaningful service and practical support wherever help is needed, particularly for senior citizens, people with disabilities, and communities affected by disasters.”

Source: vo.la/NoWAu8u

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Yangpyeong and Namyangju Branch visited elderly veterans in Yangpyeong District, Gyeonggi Province, to express their gratitude and help them stay warm throughout the winter.

On the 20th, volunteers visited three elderly veterans' households to carry out winter-proofing work, installing windproof plastic sheeting around windows and doors to block cold drafts.

The activity was part of 'Heroic Tales,' a nationwide veterans' support initiative by the Shincheonji Volunteer Group that honours and expresses gratitude to those who have dedicated themselves to the country, including national merit recipients and Korean War veterans.

The three households were selected from members of four veterans' organisations: the Vietnam War Veterans Association, Defoliant Veterans Association, Korean Liberation Association, and Disabled Veterans Association.

After completing the installations, volunteers also spent time talking with the elderly residents and checking on their well-being.

Mr. Kang (80), from Gaegun-myeon, Yangpyeong District, expressed his appreciation, saying, “During the winter, cold air used to seep into my home, making it chilly even indoors. Thanks to your help, I think I’ll be able to stay warm this year.”

Touched by the young volunteers' efforts, he added, “Seeing you come here and work so hard reminds me of my son, who passed away at the age of 22,” he said, briefly holding back tears.

Mr. Jeong (81), from Cheongun-myeon, Yangpyeong District, also thanked the volunteers for travelling such a long distance to visit him. “I’m grateful that you remembered me and came all this way, but I also feel a little guilty about always receiving help,” he said. “Next time, don't come to volunteer; just come and spend time relaxing.”

A Shincheonji Volunteer Group representative said, “We organised this activity to honour those who sacrificed for their country and express our gratitude for their dedication to the Republic of Korea. Through 'Heroic Tales', we will continue providing practical support to veterans and their families while sharing warmth and heartfelt appreciation.”

Source: vo.la/upkNGkw

These heartfelt words from primary school students were among the messages delivered to local firefighters ahead of Firefighters' Day.

On the 6th, the Bucheon Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group presented drawings and handwritten thank-you letters created by approximately 40 primary school students to a local fire station.

The initiative aimed to help children understand the courage and dedication of firefighters while encouraging gratitude, respect for life and community responsibility.

Before the creative activities, volunteers introduced students to firefighters' responsibilities, fire prevention and essential safety practices.

Through age-appropriate lessons, children learned about courage, sacrifice, cooperation and the importance of protecting others.

They then coloured illustrations depicting firefighters responding to emergencies and wrote personal messages of appreciation.

One Year 6 student shared:

Another wrote:

The Bucheon Branch transformed the children's drawings into canvas frames, attaching their handwritten letters before presenting them to the fire station. Officials warmly welcomed the gifts and expressed their appreciation.

Nam-soon Kim, Vice Branch Manager of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Bucheon Branch, said:

By combining safety education with creative expression, the initiative helped children recognise the contributions of community heroes while developing gratitude, compassion and social responsibility.

Though simple in form, the children's drawings and letters delivered a powerful message: the courage and dedication of firefighters are never forgotten.

Source: vo.la/K2nwjzx

A recent internal survey of 512 middle and senior school students at Shincheonji Church of Jesus, Peter Tribe (Gwangju Church), found that 80% have a teacher they feel comfortable confiding in about school and personal concerns. Additionally, 76% said they had experienced personal growth through church life and youth ministry activities.

Gwangju Church's youth ministry invests in regular teacher training, focusing on counselling, communication and understanding teenagers' needs.

Teachers explore real-life student situations, practise empathetic responses, study Scripture together weekly and hold fortnightly sessions to review and improve their teaching materials.

One student shared:

Min-young Park (pseudonym), a middle school teacher, added:

Beyond regular services, the youth department operates 17 specialised clubs and cultural activities organised by school year and district. These provide opportunities for teenagers to develop friendships, explore interests and build confidence.

Teachers actively participate in organising activities, creating opportunities for informal conversations about students' academic and personal lives.

Launched in December 2024, the Peter Heavenly Culture Academy runs during school holidays. Church members share their professional and creative skills, helping teenagers explore new interests and discover their abilities. Youth ministry teachers support the programme as assistant instructors.

A representative from Gwangju Church's Youth Department explained:

Through empathetic communication, practical mentorship and shared activities, Shincheonji Gwangju Church aims to create a supportive environment where young people can develop confidence, build meaningful relationships and grow together.

Source: https://vo.la/yH6aZDP

The Gangseo Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group, led by Branch Manager Do-hoon Baek, conducted an environmental cleanup campaign titled “Let Nature Be Green” around Hwagok Station in Gangseo District, Seoul, on 26th October.

The initiative aimed to improve pedestrian walkways and prevent drainage blockages caused by fallen leaves, which can lead to flooding, slippery surfaces and unpleasant odours.

A total of 70 volunteers removed roadside weeds, swept fallen leaves from streets and drains, and collected household rubbish. Along a 1km stretch, they gathered approximately 1350 litres of waste before checking that the area was clean and the drains unobstructed.

One passer-by praised their efforts, saying, “I initially thought they were district office workers. It is amazing that they volunteer without pay.”

Volunteer Ju-bong Kim, 63, of Hwagok-dong, said, “I wanted to help my community by starting with something simple—cleaning the streets.” He added, “I hope to be a light in the community, even if no one notices.”

A Gangseo Branch representative said, “Small acts of service help create a cleaner community,” adding that the branch would continue organising volunteer activities for local residents.

Source: vo.la/w3bTqNe

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