Noah Brown

Márk Nemes, Deputy Director of the Center for New Religions Research (CESNUR) is speaking at a press conference titled 'Religious and Expression Freedom in the Republic of Korea: International Concerns and Perspectives' held at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents Club in the Korea Press Center, Jung-gu, Seoul on 7th August

Márk Nemes, Deputy Director of the Center for Studies on New Religions (CESNUR), described his recent visit to Korea as “revealing,” saying firsthand meetings and field visits provided perspectives that cannot be gained from public information alone. He said he plans to continue researching Shincheonji and religious freedom based on what he observed.

Nemes spoke at a 7th July press conference in Seoul on religious and expression freedoms in Korea, where he also discussed cases involving Shincheonji in Europe, Argentina and Australia. He said the event successfully raised awareness of religious-freedom concerns, but stressed that continued discussion and research are needed.

He also emphasised that Shincheonji’s peace-related activities should be viewed as collective efforts involving members worldwide, rather than attributed solely to its leader.

Media and Government Have a Role

Nemes identified several reasons why minority religions often receive limited or one-sided coverage. Competition for views can encourage sensational reporting, while short-form content has made audiences less likely to engage with complex issues such as religious freedom.

He said readers also have a responsibility to seek balanced information, while governments and public institutions should help prevent discrimination and persecution of minority groups.

“The media must not become a source of incitement that fuels social conflict and tension,” he said.

Continuing Academic Research

Following his visit, Nemes said he would review relevant reports, publish academic research and continue studying Shincheonji. He expressed concern that overly negative public portrayals can obscure the diversity and reality of religious communities.

“I want to contribute academically to making the very grey and monotonous image currently surrounding Shincheonji more vivid,” he said.

Nemes concluded that religious communities should be examined from multiple perspectives, using diverse evidence and firsthand research rather than relying on a single narrative.

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Ven. Beopsan, President of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and Co-representative of the Joint Solidarity for Democracy and Religious Freedom, is holding a one-person protest in the rain in front of the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the morning of the 21st, holding a picket sign appealing for the trial of Chairman ManHee Lee of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, without detention.

On the 21st, Venerable Beopsan, President of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and co-representative of the Joint Solidarity for Democracy and Religious Freedom, held a one-person protest outside the Seoul Central District Court as Shincheonji Church of Jesus Chairman ManHee Lee’s bail hearing took place.

Standing in the rain, he called for a careful judicial decision, holding signs including, “Please put life before religion,” and “Please show compassion and respect human rights for the 95-year-old.”

Ven. Beopsan, President of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism and Co-representative of the Joint Solidarity for Democracy and Religious Freedom, is bowing three times towards the main gate of the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the morning of the 21st after concluding a one-person protest.

Ven. Beopsan said he felt it was his duty to speak out peacefully, adding that he hoped his protest would help with the bail hearing. Afterwards, he stressed that advocacy should remain peaceful and avoid violence or abusive language.

He then bowed three times towards the courthouse, explaining that the gesture was intended to express his sincere wishes and offer whatever merit his actions might bring.

Ven. Beopsan reiterated his hope that Chairman Lee would be granted bail, citing his advanced age and health.

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A text message received last year by the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Pyeongtaek Branch from the Gyeonggi Provincial Volunteer Centre regarding the "Notice of Selection Results for the 2025 Pyeongtaek City Volunteer Day Award Recipients." The message informs that the Pyeongtaek Branch was selected as a recipient of the Center Chairman's Award and that the award will be presented at the ceremony on 20th November.

The Gyeonggi Volunteer Center has come under scrutiny after the Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s Pyeongtaek and Guri-Namyangju branches, which had been selected for the Center Chairman’s Commendation last November, were removed from the award list just one day before the ceremony.

The two branches were notified of their selection on 1st October after their volunteer activities had been reviewed. However, on 19th November, they were told the awards had been cancelled.

The Center said the decision was unrelated to religion and resulted from accounting deficiencies identified in a public contest project, including improper expenditures and repeated requests for corrections. It cited Article 15 of its awards regulations, which allows a commendation to be revoked if an eligibility issue is later discovered.

The Center also acknowledged that there had been no problems with the branches’ volunteer achievements themselves, stating that the cancellation followed a re-examination by its Public Service Review Committee. A Center official said the same standards are applied regardless of religious affiliation and expressed regret that the issues had not been identified earlier in the screening process.

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group, however, questioned the timing and consistency of the decision. It argued that the volunteers’ years of community service—including environmental cleanup, disaster relief, support for vulnerable groups and cultural activities—should be distinguished from administrative shortcomings.

The group also called for clarification on whether other organisations with similar accounting issues had faced comparable measures. It said that without disclosure of the specific grounds for the decision, questions about fairness are likely to remain.

The controversy has also drawn comparisons with Gyeonggi Province’s 2024 cancellation of a Shincheonji event at Imjingak Peace Nuri Park on the day it was scheduled to take place. Shincheonji previously alleged religious discrimination in that case.

There is currently no confirmed evidence that the latest award cancellation was motivated by religious considerations, and the Center firmly denies such a connection. Nevertheless, the combination of a completed selection process, the last-minute cancellation and the Center’s acknowledgment that the volunteer achievements themselves were not at issue has intensified calls for greater transparency and consistency in administrative decision-making.

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group said it will continue its community service activities, emphasising that evaluations should be based on the sustainability, social contribution and transparency of volunteer work—not an organisation’s name or religious affiliation.

Source: vo.la/s24RJHv

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Venerable Yeoryang Jeonghye, the abbot of the 'Buddha's House' under the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, is holding a one-person protest in front of the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the morning of 19th August, holding a picket sign urging the release and leniency of ManHee Lee, the chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus.

On the morning of 19th August, in front of the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-dong, Seoul, a Buddhist monk stood alone on the sidewalk as streams of commuters passed by. He was Venerable Yeoryang Jeonghye, head monk of Buddha’s House, an incorporated association affiliated with the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. In his hands, he held a picket sign calling for the release and leniency of ManHee Lee, the 95-year-old chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus.

Asked why he had personally come to the courthouse to speak out on behalf of another religious leader, Venerable Yeoryang Jeonghye cited his “conscience as a religious leader.”

According to reports, fellow Buddhists at the temple had expressed concern and tried to dissuade him until the night before the protest. Some questioned why he would become involved in the affairs of another religion and endure the resulting difficulties. Others suggested that he simply remain at the temple. The monk, however, reportedly remained firm, saying that even if no one came to the temple, he believed it was more important to act according to his conscience than to worry about public opinion.

That decision did not come without anxiety. Venerable Yeoryang Jeonghye acknowledged that he was so nervous the night before that he could barely sleep. Nevertheless, he felt that someone needed to take the first step so that others might also find the courage to speak out. With that conviction, he decided to become the first person to hold a solo protest in support of Chairman Lee.

Once he arrived at the courthouse, however, his nervousness reportedly subsided. Watching the cars carrying people to work, he even found himself wondering which vehicle might belong to the judge.

Despite the scorching heat, he continued to hold his sign. He explained that he was there because he believed the principle of presumption of innocence should be respected and that no one should face unfair treatment because of their religious affiliation.

Venerable Yeoryang Jeonghye reiterated that allegations should be thoroughly investigated, but argued that religious leaders should not be subjected to harsher standards simply because of their position.

Regarding the 95-year-old Chairman Lee in particular, the monk called for his right to a full defence to be protected while he remains out of custody. He argued that the necessity of detention, as well as concerns about flight or destruction of evidence, should be examined carefully.

“Protecting the human rights of one person is protecting the human rights of us all,” he said, emphasising that the rule of law and respect for human dignity must be upheld together.

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On 8th August, a volunteer from the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Eastern Incheon Branch is cleaning an air conditioner at the office of the Incheon Council of Elders of the Marine Corps Veterans.

"The war ended decades ago, but for me, it has never truly ended..."

— Lim Jae-cheon (77), Vietnam War Veteran & Army Medic

As record-breaking heatwaves sweep across South Korea in July and August 2026—with feel-like temperatures soaring beyond 40°C —elderly war veterans faced severe health risks. Moving beyond public awareness rallies on city streets, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group took a direct, hands-on approach: entering the homes, offices, and veterans' halls of ageing heroes to provide tailored living support, summer health meals, and deep emotional companionship.

Here is a look at how volunteers delivered practical care and honour to veterans in Incheon and Gunsan.

Incheon: Health & Nutritional Support

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Eastern Incheon Branch (Eastern Incheon Branch) visited veterans’ organisations in Jemulpo-gu, Incheon, on 8th August to provide cleaning, disinfection and pest-control services. Fifteen volunteers participated to help elderly members stay safe and comfortable during the prolonged heatwave.

Volunteers cleaned air-conditioner filters, refrigerators and fans, carried out pest control, rearranged facilities and checked air-conditioning systems. They also distributed watermelons and provided guidance on heatwave safety and the use of parasols.

An official from the Incheon Association of Marine Corps Veterans said, “Most of our members are elderly, so it is difficult for them to clean air conditioners or carry out disinfection themselves. Thanks to the volunteers, we can now use the facilities with greater peace of mind.”

Incheon Branch manager Kim Su-cheon said, “Even small improvements can help protect elderly people from heat-related illnesses. We will continue providing seasonal volunteer services tailored to local needs.”

On 8th August, a volunteer from the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Eastern Incheon Branch is disassembling a fan at the office of the Incheon Council of Elders of the Marine Corps Veterans.

On 8th August, a volunteer from the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Eastern Incheon Branch is disassembling a fan motor at the office of the Incheon Council of Elders of the Marine Corps Veterans.

Gunsan: Living Space Care & Summer Supplies Delivery

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group Gunsan Branch, led by Lee Han-bit, visited three Korean War veterans’ homes on the 4th and 6th August to provide summer supplies and improve their living environments. The activity followed the “Wise Summer Life” campaign from the previous month.

Volunteers delivered electric fans and summer bedding, installed sun-blocking curtains, reorganised furniture and clothes storage, sorted old clothing and expired medicines, and thoroughly cleaned the homes. They also delivered handwritten letters from local citizens and Taegeukgi flags featuring children’s handprints as expressions of gratitude.

Veteran Jang Gil-seon, 93, said, “I am deeply grateful that they organised my belongings and thoroughly cleaned my home despite the sweltering heat. It feels like a completely new house.”

Lee Soon-sung of the Korean War Veterans Association said the donated fans and bedding would help members get through the summer more comfortably.

Lee Han-bit said, “Many Korean War veterans are elderly and vulnerable to the heatwave, so we identified their needs and provided targeted support. We will continue honouring and supporting those who devoted themselves to protecting our country.”

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group is installing curtains at the home of a war veteran on 6th August.

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group is cleaning up the home of a war veteran on 4th August

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From left: Hans Noot, Associate Director, Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF); Márk Nemes, Deputy Director of the Center for New Religions Research (CESNUR); Thierry Valle, President, Coalition for Freedom of Conscience (CAP LC); Michael Langhans, Executive Director of the Forum for Religious Freedom in Europe (FOREF) Germany; and Massimo Introvigne, President of the The Center for Studies on New Religions (CESNUR)

In an interview with Cheonji Ilbo, a South Korean daily newspaper founded in September 2009 that covers general news, politics, culture, and religion, five international experts specialising in human rights and religious freedom who recently visited Korea highlighted a shared message for Korean society: fundamental rights must apply universally. They stressed that freedom of religion, expression and association, along with human dignity and due process, should be protected equally for all groups, including those that may be socially controversial or unpopular.

The experts— Hans Noot, Associate Director, Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF); Márk Nemes, Deputy Director of the Center for New Religions Research (CESNUR); Thierry Valle, President, Coalition for Freedom of Conscience (CAP LC); Michael Langhans, Executive Director of the Forum for Religious Freedom in Europe (FOREF) Germany; and Massimo Introvigne, President of the The Center for Studies on New Religions (CESNUR)—shared their perspectives on religious freedom in Korea and the treatment of minority religions before and after a press conference held at the Korea Press Center in Seoul on 7th August.

◆ “The Detention of a 95-Year-Old Should Be Assessed According to the Principle of Proportionality”

One of the main issues raised during the experts’ visit was the detention of ManHee Lee, chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus. The experts made clear that they were not seeking to determine whether he was guilty or innocent of the charges against him. Instead, they questioned whether the pretrial detention of a 95-year-old defendant was genuinely necessary and whether the same objectives could be achieved through less restrictive measures.

Hans Noot, who personally visited Chairman Lee at the detention facility, said that determining guilt is the responsibility of the judiciary, but assessing whether detention is necessary is a separate issue. He suggested that alternatives such as bail or house arrest could be considered where appropriate.

Thierry Valle likewise identified human dignity as a key consideration. He argued that authorities should carefully examine whether detention is necessary for defendants who are protected by the presumption of innocence, or whether their release on bail or under appropriate supervision could achieve the same objectives. He also noted that international human rights mechanisms, including the UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention (WGAD), could potentially be considered where appropriate.

Michael Langhans focused on both the proportionality of detention for elderly defendants and their right to adequately prepare a defence. He questioned whether a defendant can sufficiently prepare for trial while detained under circumstances involving restrictions on visitation and access to necessary resources.

Massimo Introvigne similarly argued that the detention of elderly, non-violent defendants warrants particularly careful scrutiny. He referred to the Mandela Rules and relevant European standards as frameworks that recognise the importance of considering the circumstances and dignity of detainees.

◆ “When Reporting on Minority Religions, Facts Must Come Before Stigmatisation”

The experts also highlighted concerns about how minority religions are portrayed by the media and perceived by society.

Thierry Valle emphasised the importance of responsible fact-checking, particularly at a time when unverified claims and provocative images can spread rapidly through social media. He acknowledged that criticism and public debate are protected forms of expression, but stressed that religious groups should not be condemned or stigmatised solely on the basis of rumours or unverified allegations.

Márk Nemes described his visit to Korea as a “revealing” experience, explaining that personally visiting relevant locations and meeting members allowed him to gain perspectives that could not be obtained from externally formed perceptions alone.

He identified several factors that may contribute to inadequate coverage of minority religions, including media revenue models, the public demand for sensational content, and the role of government and public institutions.

Nemes argued that the media should not contribute to social division or conflict and that governments have a responsibility to protect socially marginalised communities from aggressive or discriminatory behaviour. He also said he intends to continue researching new religious movements, including Shincheonji, drawing on relevant reports, data and findings from his visit to Korea.

◆ “The Same Fundamental Rights Standards Must Apply to Minority Groups”

Massimo Introvigne discussed the situation in Korea through what he calls the “Rome Model,” which describes how restrictions on religious freedom can develop in stages.

According to this framework, the process may begin with intolerance, in which distorted or negative perceptions of a particular group become widespread. This can progress to discrimination, including discriminatory laws or administrative measures, and potentially develop into persecution, including hate crimes or physical violence.

While acknowledging that South Korea is a democratic country, Introvigne noted that democratic systems are not automatically immune from intolerance or discrimination against minority religions.

He cautioned that when a particular religious group is consistently described using negative labels such as “heresy” or “cult,” while only critical perspectives are presented, it can become difficult for society to develop a balanced understanding of that group.

The five experts also stressed that their press conference should not be regarded as a one-time event.

Hans Noot expressed concern that freedom of religion, freedom of expression and freedom of association are interconnected rights. He warned that weakening one of these freedoms could have broader consequences for other fundamental rights.

Michael Langhans described the press conference as a “first step” and said that related discussions would continue in Germany and elsewhere in Europe.

Ultimately, the experts raised a fundamental question: Are the same standards of human rights being applied to minority groups, particularly those at the centre of public controversy, as are applied to the majority?

Regardless of religious doctrine, public opinion or social controversy surrounding a particular group, they emphasised that freedom of religion, expression and association, as well as due process and human dignity, should be protected equally for everyone.

Source: https://www.newscj.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=3426244

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A young member is teaching elderly private car owners how to use traffic and mobility apps on smartphones and tablets during a safe driving campaign for senior drivers held at Shincheonji Busan Church on 11th August.

A heartwarming community initiative in Busan is helping elderly drivers stay safe on the road while supporting their right to remain mobile and independent.

On 11th August, Shincheonji Busan Church launched its “Beautiful Companion” campaign, involving 48 elderly private-car drivers among its advisory members. The initiative aims to prevent accidents involving older drivers while ensuring that they are not unnecessarily deprived of their mobility.

Rather than simply encouraging elderly people to stop driving, the campaign focuses on helping them assess their driving abilities, address potential safety concerns, and explore alternative transportation options where necessary.

As part of the programme, participating seniors underwent customised cognitive assessments designed to help them objectively evaluate changes in their physical and cognitive abilities. Of the participants, 41 signed a safety pledge, committing themselves to safer and more responsible driving.

For participants who did not meet certain driving standards or needed additional safety measures, the organisers provided information about installing pedal misoperation prevention devices. They also assisted with the application process and paperwork, helping to reduce the administrative burden for elderly drivers.

The campaign also distributed magnetic vehicle stickers bearing messages such as “Elderly person is on board” and “Thank you for your consideration.” The stickers are intended to encourage other road users to exercise greater caution and consideration around elderly drivers.

Young adult members of the Busan Church also played an important role by providing personalised guidance on digital transportation services. They taught seniors unfamiliar with smartphones and other digital devices how to call taxis, search public transportation routes, and use mobility applications. In this way, the initiative went beyond promoting safer driving by helping elderly people become comfortable with alternative forms of transportation.

Song Jun-sik, 72, from Saha-gu, who participated in the campaign, said, “I could feel my reflexes declining as I grew older, but I didn't know what to do because I couldn't simply stop driving.” He added, “The young people helped me apply for safety equipment and patiently showed me how to use alternative transportation apps. It eased many of my concerns.”

He continued, “I now feel more confident that I can protect not only myself but also other people on the road.”

Shincheonji Busan Church plans to develop the “Beautiful Companion” campaign into a regular welfare programme. It also intends to expand traffic-safety education to senior welfare centres and veterans' organisations throughout Busan.

Further support, including material assistance and mobility services, is also planned for people who face difficulties accessing transportation.

Lee Young-no, head of the Busan James Branch, said, “The issue of elderly drivers is not something that should be left to individuals or addressed solely through existing systems. It is a challenge that the whole community needs to consider and work together to resolve.”

He added, “We will continue to harness the energy and abilities of young people to help build a caring local community where elderly residents can remain safe, respected, and supported.”

Source: vo.la/9WMJ9Eg

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This year marks the 76th anniversary of the outbreak of the Korean War.

To commemorate the occasion, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Changwon Branch held a “Love for the Nation, Sharing Peace” event at Changwon Veterans' Hall on 23rd August, honouring Korean War veterans and other national honourees.

The event was organised to express gratitude to those who dedicated their youth to serving their country by preparing nourishing bowls of samgyetang, Korea’s traditional ginseng chicken soup.

Around 60 people, including disabled war veterans, war widows and volunteers, took part in the event.

Preparing dozens of bowls of samgyetang in the middle of summer is no small undertaking. Before the event began, volunteers thoroughly cleaned the Veterans' Hall and prepared the samgyetang from scratch.

One volunteer said she barely noticed the physical demands of the work because she was focused on seeing the veterans enjoy the meal and regain their strength. Her words highlighted the volunteers’ genuine dedication and care.

The volunteers also offered free haircuts, beauty treatments and aromatherapy before and after the meal. Some elderly participants were moved to tears, saying the soothing aroma helped them feel relaxed and comforted. Even reading about their experience was deeply moving.

The event also included simple activities, such as decorating fans with handprints, as well as a photo exhibition depicting the devastation caused by the Korean War.

By spending time together, veterans and volunteers reflected on the painful history of the war while sharing their hopes for lasting peace—capturing the spirit of the event.

Before leaving, each participant received a thoughtfully prepared gift package containing everyday hygiene essentials, including toothpaste and toothbrushes.

Alongside this annual veterans’ event, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s Changwon Branch continues to support the local community through activities such as kimchi sharing and the delivery of care packages.

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Chang-hoon Kang, Head of the Guri-Namyangju Branch, is presenting Samgyetang with Korean lacquer tree extract to Jeong-gon Kim, Head of the Namyangju Branch.

The Guri-Namyangju Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group, led by Branch Manager Kang Chang-hoon, carried out a special volunteer service on 7th August to support local veterans during the ongoing heatwave and help them stay healthy throughout the summer.

The initiative was organised to provide practical assistance to elderly recipients of national merit who may be particularly vulnerable to extreme heat and heat-related illnesses. It also served as an expression of appreciation for veterans and national merit recipients who devoted themselves to serving and protecting their country.

Thirteen volunteers from the Guri-Namyangju Branch took part in the activity. They visited the Namyangju Branch of the Korea Association of Disabled Veterans and the Namyangju Branch of the Korea Association of Meritorious Service Medal Recipients.

The volunteers delivered 13 servings of nutritious samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) prepared with pure lacquer tree extract, along with 13 boxes of seasonal watermelons. They also presented four framed Mugunghwa (Hibiscus) artworks handcrafted by the volunteers as a gesture of respect and gratitude for the recipients’ dedication and service.

In addition to providing nutritious meals and fresh fruit, the volunteers spent time with the veterans, sharing refreshments and offering information on preventing heat-related illnesses and maintaining good health during the summer months.

Kim Jeong-gon, chairman of the Namyangju Branch of the Association of Disabled Veterans, expressed his appreciation for the volunteers’ efforts.

“I am truly grateful for the thoughtful preparation of samgyetang for our members who live alone during this sweltering weather,” Kim said. “I hope this opportunity will help strengthen the relationship and cooperation between our two organisations.”

Kim Jong-wook, secretary general of the Namyangju Branch of the Association of Meritorious Service Medal Recipients, also thanked the volunteers for following through on their commitment.

“I deeply appreciate that you remembered your promise to return and volunteer after your previous visit,” Kim said. “I am grateful to the volunteer group for continuing to contribute so much to the local community.”

An official from the Guri-Namyangju Branch said the service was particularly meaningful given the current international climate.

“It is meaningful to have the opportunity, even in a small way, to express our gratitude to the veterans who helped lay the foundation for the peace we enjoy today, especially at a time when the international situation remains uncertain,” the official said.

The official added that the volunteer group's leadership has a strong commitment to honouring veterans, noting that its representative leader is also a Korean War veteran who has consistently emphasised the importance of respect and appreciation for those who served.

“We will continue working closely with local veterans’ organizations and remain committed to sincere volunteer service and sharing within the community,” the official said.

Source: vo.la/Mpx4d4t

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The Donghae Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group conducted a campaign at the East Sea Central Market featuring school uniform fashion and a retro dress code.

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group is continuing efforts to support the revitalisation of traditional markets and neighbourhood commercial districts through activities designed around the characteristics and needs of individual communities. Its initiatives combine environmental cleanup, local events, and direct patronage of neighbourhood businesses to encourage greater activity in local commercial areas.

While online shopping continues to grow, traditional markets face the ongoing challenge of attracting visitors outside peak tourist periods and major holidays. Population decline in many regions has added to the difficulties faced by local merchants, increasing the importance of initiatives that encourage residents to visit and support neighbourhood businesses.

◆ Community Events Designed Around Local Markets

The Donghae Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group entered into an agreement with the Merchants Association of Donghae City’s East Sea Central Market and organised a variety of activities aimed at increasing foot traffic and encouraging market visits.

The programme included balloon-popping games, quizzes, a “regular restaurant” sticker campaign, store stickers and coupons, and random prize drawings. Customers who made purchases at participating market stores received coupons that could be exchanged for goods at the campaign booth.

The event also incorporated traditional Korean activities, including Tuho (arrow throwing), Jegichagi (traditional foot shuttlecock), Yutnori, rope twisting, traditional stick-balancing activities, and sharing sword bean tea.

Additional activities were designed to appeal to multiple generations and evoke memories of earlier times. These included balsam finger dyeing, rubber-shoe throwing games, and a “Bongsunga Academy” experience featuring school uniforms inspired by the 1970s and 1980s.

Park Hyun-ju, a citizen who attended the event, said, “I visited the market for the first time in a while after hearing about the event. The products were reasonably priced, which was great from a consumer’s perspective.”

“If campaigns like this are held regularly, I believe they could be beneficial to the local economy,” Park added.

◆ Environmental Cleanup and Support for Merchants

The volunteer group is also conducting ongoing environmental cleanup activities around traditional markets.

Since 2023, the Seoul Dongdaemun Branch has organised weekly Sunday cleanups around Gyeongdong Market and Cheongnyangni Market. Over the past three years, 1826 volunteers have participated, collecting approximately 8927 litres of waste.

Park Hee-soon, a merchant who operates a business at Cheongnyangni Market, said the regular cleanup efforts had made a visible difference.

“As the area was cleaned every week, the market became noticeably cleaner, and merchants naturally began paying more attention to keeping the environment clean,” Park said.

In Geoje, volunteers also cleaned the area surrounding Okpo International Market, a destination visited by both local residents and tourists. Following the cleanup, volunteers supported merchants by purchasing food ingredients and household goods directly from market stores.

Merchant Kim Jeong-suk said, “I was grateful that they supported the merchants by shopping at the market after completing the volunteer work.”

“It seems that combining environmental cleanup with direct support for traditional markets has also helped the surrounding commercial district,” Kim added.

◆ Linking Walking and Local Consumption

Other branches have focused on encouraging residents to combine healthy activities with support for local businesses.

The Iksan Branch organised an eight-day “Donghaeng 10,000 Steps Challenge,” which encouraged participants to walk 10,000 steps each day while supporting local businesses. More than 300 people participated.

Participants who reached their daily walking goal received coupons that could be used at participating neighbourhood businesses, including cafés.

The operator of L Cafe, one of the participating businesses, said, “It was encouraging to see participants consistently visiting the store throughout the campaign.”

“They also offered words of encouragement, which gave me a real sense of warmth and connection with the community,” the café operator added.

Participants also incorporated plogging into their walks, collecting approximately 3000 litres of litter. In this way, the programme combined support for local businesses with environmental stewardship.

◆ Supporting Mutual Growth in Local Communities

An official from the Shincheonji Volunteer Group said the organisation's goal is to create activities that generate tangible benefits for local communities rather than simply organising one-time volunteer visits.

“Our goal was not simply for volunteers to visit an area and leave, but to encourage citizens to visit local markets, spend time there, and contribute to actual economic activity,” the official said.

“Traditional markets and neighbourhood commercial districts are places where residents’ everyday lives intersect with the local economy. We will continue listening to merchants and residents and developing activities that reflect the unique characteristics and needs of each community.”

The official added that the organisation plans to continue pursuing initiatives that connect volunteer service, environmental improvement, community participation, and local consumption as part of its broader commitment to mutual growth.

Source: vo.la/mjPxO7L

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Panoramic view of the Shincheonji Gwacheon Headquarters Church

Article 11 of the Constitution of the Republic of Korea guarantees equality before the law, while Article 20 protects freedom of religion. These fundamental rights are not privileges reserved for groups that enjoy widespread social acceptance or for religions favoured by the majority. Rather, the true strength of the Constitution and the rule of law is demonstrated when those same protections are extended to minority groups that may face social criticism, hostility, or prejudice.

◆ A Dramatic Reversal Under the Same Circumstances

Against this backdrop, the appellate ruling issued on 12th August in the administrative lawsuit between Shincheonji Church of Jesus and Gwacheon City over a change in building use raises significant questions.

At its core is a fundamental issue: Can opposition to a particular religion justify restricting the constitutional rights of citizens who practise that religion?

The appellate court overturned the lower court's decision and ruled in favour of Gwacheon City. It determined that the city's acceptance of a 2006 report concerning the change of use did not constitute a valid permit under the revised Building Act and concluded that the building remained classified as a “business facility.”

The court also considered collective complaints, potential regional conflict, concerns regarding the residential and educational environment, and traffic and parking issues. Based on these factors, it concluded that there was a substantial public-interest justification for refusing the requested change.

However, whether resident opposition, social tensions, or the possibility of conflict can legitimately justify restrictions on fundamental rights—including religious freedom and property rights—is an issue that warrants particularly careful scrutiny.

The first-instance court reached a different conclusion. It held that restrictions on fundamental rights could not readily be justified by vague concerns, a large number of complaints, or negative perceptions surrounding a particular religion and its missionary activities. Instead, the court indicated that such restrictions should be supported by concrete and objectively verifiable risks.

The fact that two courts reached fundamentally different conclusions regarding the same building, the same surrounding circumstances, and the same application raises an important question: What changed sufficiently to justify such a dramatic reversal?

A significant departure from the original judgment requires a clear explanation capable of convincing the public that the legal and factual circumstances genuinely warranted a different outcome. Without such an explanation, concerns may arise that broader social sentiment or the prevailing political atmosphere influenced the legal assessment.

◆ Whose “Public Opinion” Does Gwacheon City Represent?

Another issue deserves attention.

Following the ruling, Gwacheon City reportedly characterised the outcome as “a result obtained through the united response of citizens, the city, and the council.”

But whose views does the city mean when it refers to the “will of the citizens”?

For some time, opposition to Shincheonji has been organised in Gwacheon, particularly among elements of the Protestant community. There have been instances in which the views of this opposition movement have been presented or perceived as though they represented the views of Gwacheon residents as a whole.

However, several local merchants have expressed a different perspective. They voiced dissatisfaction with efforts to prevent the facility from operating normally and said, in effect, that they hoped the Shincheonji Church would be allowed to resume normal operations so that the surrounding commercial district could once again be revitalised.

If different views exist within the community, Gwacheon City should consider whether it is misleading the public by presenting the position of one side as though it represents the entirety of public sentiment.

Administrative litigation is not an election in which the side with the greatest popular support wins. Its purpose is to determine whether an administrative action has a clear legal basis, whether a restriction on fundamental rights is genuinely necessary, and whether any such restriction has been limited to the minimum extent required.

If minority rights can be overridden simply because the majority voice is louder, the fundamental meaning of the rule of law is inevitably weakened.

◆ When Religious Hostility Becomes Administrative Policy

The circumstances surrounding the case also raise a broader question.

Did religious hostility towards Shincheonji—particularly hostility arising from established denominations characterising the organization as a “heresy” or “cult”—become amplified through portions of the media? Did that public sentiment, in turn, influence Gwacheon City's response, eventually contributing to administrative and judicial restrictions affecting a particular religious group?

If hostility towards a religion ultimately develops into administrative sanctions, the consequences for the rule of law are deeply troubling.

The state is not a religious authority charged with determining which religion is right or wrong. Its responsibility is to remain neutral and protect the constitutional rights of all citizens equally, regardless of whether their religious beliefs are popular or belong to a minority.

◆ Are Vague Concerns and Collective Opposition Really “Public Interest”?

The concept of “public interest” should not become a catch-all justification for restricting fundamental rights.

Where fundamental rights are limited on public-interest grounds, the risks relied upon to justify those restrictions should be demonstrated through concrete and objective evidence. If vague concerns, social discomfort, or collective opposition can simply be repackaged as “public interest,” the rule of law risks being transformed into what is effectively a tyranny of the majority.

This raises another legitimate question: If an established and widely accepted church had submitted the same application for the same building under the same circumstances, would Gwacheon City and the courts have applied precisely the same standards?

The credibility of the law is ultimately measured by whether it protects unpopular minorities with the same standards it applies to powerful or widely accepted groups.

Gwacheon City should therefore be cautious about presenting the views of one particular group as the collective voice of the community. Likewise, the constitutional rights of citizens should not be restricted simply because their religion is unpopular or viewed negatively by others.

If such a principle were accepted, the consequences would extend far beyond Shincheonji. At stake would be the constitutional guarantees of equality before the law, freedom of religion, and the rule of law itself.

Source: vo.la/Zwc2fEx

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Gustaf Möller, former Supreme Court Justice of Finland.

Former Finnish Supreme Court Justice Gustaf Möller emphasised that pretrial detention should be an exceptional measure—not the norm—in a democratic society governed by the rule of law. He said any decision to continue detention should be based on a careful, individualised assessment of specific risks, including flight, destruction of evidence, or the possibility of serious criminal activity.

Möller made the remarks in response to a recent inquiry concerning the detention of ManHee Lee, chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus.

According to Möller, in a democratic state governed by the rule of law, pretrial detention is an exception rather than a general principle. Referring to Article 9, Paragraph 3 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), he explained that a defendant awaiting trial should be detained only when doing so is reasonable and necessary to address specific risks, such as flight, destruction of evidence, or the recurrence of serious crimes.

“Pretrial detention should not become a form of punishment before a final conviction has been reached,” Möller said. He stressed that courts must provide concrete and sufficient reasons when ordering or extending detention.

“In order to continue pretrial detention, relevant and sufficient grounds must be presented,” he said. “It is not enough for a court to simply repeat abstract legal phrases.”

Individual Circumstances Must Be Considered

Möller further explained that detention decisions should reflect the individual circumstances of the defendant. Courts should also consider whether less restrictive alternatives could adequately address the identified risks.

Possible alternatives, he noted, may include bail, surrender of travel documents, restrictions on residence, mandatory periodic appearances before authorities, house arrest, electronic monitoring, and limitations on contact with witnesses.

He also identified age and health as important factors in assessing the necessity and proportionality of detention.

While advanced age does not automatically exempt a defendant from detention, Möller said that courts must give serious consideration to circumstances arising from a defendant’s age, disability, and medical condition.

He said this consideration is particularly important when the defendant is 95 years old. In such circumstances, courts should carefully examine the person's medical vulnerability, whether detention facilities can provide appropriate medical treatment and care, the effect of detention on the defendant’s ability to prepare and participate in their defence, and whether alternative measures could achieve the same objectives.

Möller also emphasised that the necessity of detention should be reviewed on an ongoing basis. The proportionality of detention can change over time as a defendant’s health, age, and circumstances evolve and as an investigation or trial progresses.

“The Presumption of Innocence Must Be Upheld Throughout the Proceedings”

Möller also stressed that the presumption of innocence applies throughout the investigation and trial process, rather than only at the point when a court issues its final judgment.

Referring to Article 14, Paragraph 2 of the ICCPR, he described the presumption of innocence as “one of the cornerstones of criminal justice in a democratic society.”

He explained that public authorities, including police and prosecutors, should not prejudge the outcome of a case or present allegations of guilt as established facts.

At the same time, Möller noted that governments are not prohibited from informing the public about investigations or indictments, nor are politicians prohibited from discussing matters of legitimate public interest.

The key issue, he said, is the language used when discussing an ongoing case.

“Public officials must use neutral and legally accurate language,” Möller emphasised. He said officials should consistently refer to “allegations,” avoid statements or descriptions that imply guilt has already been established, and recognise that determining guilt or innocence is ultimately the responsibility of the courts.

He further warned that statements by senior government officials can contribute to social stigma against a defendant, potentially influence witnesses, and create the perception that the government expects a particular outcome from the courts.

Although professional judges are expected to make independent decisions based solely on the evidence and applicable law, Möller said even the appearance of political pressure can weaken public confidence in the independence and fairness of the judicial process.

Cooperation With Investigators Can Be Relevant

Möller also identified a defendant’s cooperation with investigators as a potentially relevant factor when assessing whether continued detention is necessary.

He explained that consistent cooperation with investigative authorities may indicate a lower risk of evidence being destroyed or concealed. Similarly, responding to summonses and voluntarily participating in legal proceedings may be relevant when assessing the risk of flight.

Such conduct may also be considered when determining whether detention is necessary to prevent the recurrence of serious criminal activity.

Public Confidence in Judicial Independence

Ultimately, Möller emphasised that the authority of the judiciary depends not only on the law itself but also on public confidence that judicial proceedings are conducted fairly and independently.

He said courts should make decisions based on clear reasoning, transparency, and consistency. This principle, he stressed, applies equally to decisions concerning pretrial detention.

Rather than relying on generalised or formulaic statements, courts should carefully examine the specific circumstances of each defendant and determine whether detention remains necessary, proportionate, and justified under the applicable legal standards.

Source: https://www.newscj.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=3424834

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