Korean War veterans have submitted an urgent petition urging the court to grant bail to Shincheonji Church of Jesus Chairman ManHee Lee, 95, who suffered a spinal fracture while in detention.

The Songpa-Gangdong Branch of the Seoul Chapter of the Korean War Veterans Association of Korea said on the 20th that it decided to submit the petition after learning of Chairman Lee’s injury. The group appealed, “Please do not ignore the desperate plea of the old soldiers who defended the country.”

Chairman Lee, a Korean War veteran and adviser to the Seoul Chapter, has maintained a long-standing relationship with the veterans’ association. The veterans recalled his support for elderly war veterans, particularly when care and assistance were difficult to obtain.

They expressed concern about the serious health risks fractures can pose to people in their nineties, including muscle loss and other complications from prolonged bed rest. They also warned that repeated release and re-detention could disrupt Chairman Lee’s medical treatment and rehabilitation. The petition calls for Chairman Lee to remain in hospital for intensive treatment while his trial continues. The veterans said they believe he would comply with any conditions imposed by the court and attend all required proceedings if granted bail.

The association stressed that its appeal is not intended to influence the court’s determination of Chairman Lee’s guilt or innocence. At a press conference outside the Seoul Central District Court on the 7th of this month, the veterans likewise said they were not seeking special treatment because Chairman Lee is a war veteran, but consideration for his health and right to appropriate medical care.

The petition acknowledged the importance of the law while appealing for humanitarian consideration for an elderly defendant. The veterans said that, having served on the battlefield more than 70 years ago, they understood the importance of law and order but also believed that “the law should protect human life and the health rights of elderly patients.”

Lee has been on trial since his detention on 24th June over allegations including violations of the Political Parties Act. His detention has reportedly been suspended three times because of health concerns, with him subsequently returned to custody twice. Following a bail hearing on the 21st of last month, the court has yet to issue a final decision.

The Songpa-Gangdong Branch plans to submit the petition to the Seoul Central District Court through Chairman Lee’s legal representatives. It also plans to petition the National Human Rights Commission to investigate the appropriateness of medical treatment provided to elderly inmates in correctional facilities.

Source: vo.la/WVAQFvR

His picket sign read: “Chairman ManHee Lee, a super-elderly man at 95 years old suffering from a fractured spine, is enduring pain in the detention centre. Please grant him bail so that he can receive treatment.”

Park said, “I believe the charges applied to Chairman Lee are contrary to the facts,” adding, “Looking at this matter, I also felt that it was an unjust persecution of religion.”

He explained that his decision to participate followed encounters with interfaith initiatives and peace activities. “Through interaction with the Religious Unity Office and the peace organisation HWPL, the misunderstandings I had about the Chairman were resolved and my perception improved,” he said. “Although I am a mere individual, I participated with the hope that the Chairman’s medical bail would be granted soon.”

Park said that standing alone outside the court initially felt unfamiliar, but the experience prompted him to reflect on the importance of judging others based on facts rather than religious differences.

“I thought someone might pick a fight or provoke me during the protest, but I stayed in my place undisturbed under the blue sky and white clouds,” he said. “I hope we can become a society where we can respect and talk to each other, even if we have different religions.”

After completing the protest, Park remained at the site and voluntarily cleaned up rubbish in the surrounding area.

Reflecting on the experience, he said, “This one-person protest was a time for me to reflect on myself.” He added, “I hope that the Chairman will not be in prison at least for the Chuseok holiday and that his medical bail will be granted soon.”

Park also expressed hope for a society in which people can respect different beliefs and address disagreements through dialogue and understanding rather than conflict and misunderstanding.

Source: vo.la/IXHgf0R

Ahead of Chuseok, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Songha Branch held a fire prevention campaign on 20th September in the Pureungil Park area of Jinwol-dong, Gwangju, highlighting fire safety during the holiday period.

According to the National Fire Agency, 1170 fires occurred nationwide during the Chuseok holiday period from 2019 to 2023. Of these, 425 were residential fires, with 240 cases (56.4%) attributed to negligence, including cooking and discarded cigarette butts.

The campaign provided citizens with hands-on training in using fire extinguishers and responding to fires in their early stages. Participants also tested their knowledge through an OX quiz at the Fire Prevention Mobile Game Zone.

The Songha Branch introduced the 119 Fire Evacuation Safety Call system for people who may require assistance during evacuation, including older people and those with mobility difficulties. Safety leaflets and fire-extinguisher-shaped keyrings were also distributed.

A parent who participated in the quiz with their child said, “I was surprised to learn that one small powder fire extinguisher can do the work of more than one fire engine in the early stages of a fire.” The participant added, “I plan to check the locations of the fire extinguishers in my home and vehicle once again.”

Citizens were also reminded to practise basic precautions, including not leaving cooking unattended, disposing of cigarette butts safely, checking heating appliances and ensuring fire extinguishers are accessible and in good condition. Those visiting ancestral graves or going hiking were advised to take additional precautions against wildfires.

A Songha Branch official said, “We hope that the upcoming Chuseok holiday will serve as an opportunity for citizens to reflect once again on the importance of fire prevention and practise safety rules in their daily lives.” The official added, “We will continue our activities to spread a culture of safety in everyday life.”

Source: vo.la/wPvI19B

On the afternoon of 22nd September, Pastor Geon-hee Bae of the Presbyterian Church of Korea held a one-person protest outside the Seoul Central District Court, calling for medical bail for ManHee Lee, who is currently in custody.

Pastor Bae said, “It is regrettable that Chairman ManHee Lee, the Messenger of Peace, who is 95 years old, is suffering in prison. I wanted to be of even a little help so that he can be released on medical bail as soon as possible.”

He explained that he had become involved in peace activities after encountering the work of HWPL and had subsequently attended related events and presentations.

Reflecting on his protest, he said, “I felt heartbroken seeing someone who has called for peace with such earnestness suffering imprisonment at such an advanced age. Although there is not much I can do, I wanted to help in whatever small way I could.”

Despite feeling unwell, Pastor Bae remained throughout the protest. “I haven’t been feeling well since yesterday, so I prayed earnestly to finish the protest safely,” he said, adding, “I give thanks and glory to God for allowing me to remain here until the end.”

He concluded by renewing his appeal: “I earnestly pray that HWPL Chairman ManHee Lee will be released on bail as soon as possible.”

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On the afternoon of 23rd September, outside a Seoul court, Venerable Beopsan stood quietly with a placard in his hands and began chanting prayers.

At 95 years old, Chairman ManHee Lee is facing trial while dealing with a fractured spine. For Venerable Beopsan, the sight of an elderly man facing serious health concerns became a deeply personal appeal for compassion and medical care.

Venerable Beopsan, President of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, held a sign that read:

He called on the court to consider the elderly Chairman’s health, life, and human dignity, urging that medical treatment and humanitarian considerations not be overlooked during the legal proceedings.

As he continued chanting, the normally composed religious leader spoke of the emotion he felt.

“Today, I felt a lump in my throat while chanting,” he said.

His words reflected more than a legal appeal. They conveyed concern for an elderly man whose health, he believes, should be given serious consideration.

Venerable Beopsan said he intended to continue his one-person protest until Chairman Lee is released.

“I believe this protest must not stop until the Chairman is released,” he said. He also questioned whether such treatment was appropriate for a 95-year-old senior citizen, particularly in a society that places importance on respecting its elders.

He continued to appeal for medical bail, expressing hope that compassion would prevail.

As the prayers continued outside the court, his message was simple—whatever the outcome of the case, the dignity and humanity of an elderly person should not be forgotten.

Source: vo.la/ExxcyvD

Religious and civil society leaders in Zambia have called for humanitarian consideration in the case of 95-year-old Shincheonji Church of Jesus Chairman ManHee Lee, who is on trial in South Korea. They urged that his age and health be considered while ensuring due process and human dignity.

The appeal was made at a press conference on the 21st at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Lusaka under the theme, “Ubuntu—A Call for Universal Human Rights, Due Process, and Human Dignity.” The event brought together religious leaders, civil society representatives, and peace activists.

Organisers said the gathering was not intended to influence the trial but to highlight humanitarian concerns regarding an elderly defendant and the importance of due process, including consideration of proceedings without detention.

Speakers emphasised Ubuntu, an African philosophy often expressed as “I am because we are,” which stresses mutual responsibility and respect for human dignity.

Isaac Mwansa of the Zambia Civil Liberties Union urged greater attention to Chairman Lee’s age. Dr. Evans K. Kaping'a of the Apostolic Council of the Christian Union of Zambia called for humanitarian consideration while respecting South Korea’s judicial system. Sheikh Yussuf Ayami of the Family Development Initiative stressed the protection of the presumption of innocence and freedom of religion or belief.

The event concluded with participants signing a joint petition calling for “humanitarian treatment and the guarantee of due process for elderly people aged 95 and above.”

Source: vo.la/90qcqf2

Won-bae Song, Dean of Hyeneung International Buddhist University, recently expressed his stance on the continued detention of Shincheonji Chairman ManHee Lee (shortened text).

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For the Shincheonji Volunteer Group Wonju Branch, a Chuseok food delivery became something much more meaningful: an opportunity for young people to sit with veterans, hear their stories, and say thank you.

Volunteers prepared homemade jeon and visited national merit recipients in Wonju and Hoengseong. Among them were Korean War veterans Young-hwan Kim and Dong-geun Kim, both 95.

When young men who had recently completed their own military service handed them the food and said, “Thank you for protecting our country,” the veterans and the young volunteers stood face-to-face and exchanged salutes.

More than 70 years separated the two generations, but the moment needed few words.

“I am grateful that young people have not forgotten me,” Young-hwan Kim said. “It warms my heart that they prepared the food themselves and came to visit.”

Dong-geun Kim added, “As I get older, it means even more when someone comes to visit and asks how I am doing.”

For 24-year-old volunteer Min-jun Kim, meeting the veterans was equally moving.

“Listening to their stories made me reflect on their sacrifice and dedication,” he said.

The visit also brought back memories for Vietnam War veteran Myeong-seo Park, 80. As a child, he heard stories about the Korean War and the help Korea received from other countries. Years later, when he had the opportunity to serve in Vietnam, he volunteered.

He served for about one year and eight months beginning in 1969, later learning Vietnamese and working as an interpreter.

“Since I went there and came back, I live with pride, thinking that perhaps I was able to contribute in some way,” Park said.

For 78-year-old Vietnam War veteran Hee-tak Yang, memories of Vietnam are connected to a letter he left for his family before departing in 1970.

By the time they received it, he wrote, he would already be on a ship bound for Vietnam.

During his 10 months of service, Yang experienced the fear of artillery attacks.

“I could hear the shells whistling over the barracks, followed by explosions nearby,” he recalled. “Fortunately, there were no casualties.”

More than half a century later, his wish remains simple.

A volunteer official said the visit ultimately became less about delivering food and more about listening.

“We came to deliver food, but instead, we had the opportunity to hear stories from the elderly that we had never known before,” the official said.

For the veterans, it was a visit from a neighbour. For the young volunteers, it was a chance to hear history from those who lived it.

And for a few hours during Chuseok, a simple plate of homemade jeon helped bridge generations.

Source: vo.la/Qvjn7Oh

The Gangdong Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group held the “One Veteran’s Commemoration” photo exhibition on 25th June at Seokchon Lake in Seoul, marking the 76th anniversary of the Korean War and the Month of Patriots and Veterans.

The exhibition featured photos and interviews highlighting veterans’ lives and sacrifices, encouraging younger generations to reflect on the value of peace. A survey found that 70% of young respondents cited a lack of education as a reason for limited interest in Korean War veterans.

One visitor said, “Young people these days don’t know much about the Korean War, so it seems like a meaningful event that reminds us of the sacrifices of the veterans.”

A Gangdong branch official said, “We wanted to introduce Korean War veterans not simply as ‘elders who defended the country,’ but as the young men of that time who left their dreams and futures behind to go to war.”

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Volunteers distributed ‘Manner Water,’ an EM-based solution designed to reduce odours and pollution, and demonstrated how to use it in areas affected by dog urine. They also hosted a ‘Manner Water’ making booth and encouraged residents to clean up promptly after their pets.

For the summer and rainy season, volunteers set up a temporary dog rest area with cooling pads, potty pads, drinking water, and toys. A QR-code participation event also encouraged visitors to practice responsible pet etiquette.

A Gangdong Branch official said, “After the rain, we noticed dog urine odours in several areas, highlighting the need for ‘Manner Water.’” The official added that the branch will continue visiting Guui Park to promote the campaign and responsible pet ownership.

Source: https://www.dongbunews.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=880

The Gwangju Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group held an environmental cleanup and eco-friendly campaign at Mudeungsan National Park on 27th June, in partnership with the Central Federation for Global Environment Conservation.

Mudeungsan (1187m) is a prominent, pillar-studded mountain and UNESCO Global Geopark rising directly above Gwangju.

On that day, volunteers collected about 150 litres of litter, including plastic, cans, and vinyl, from hiking trails, rest areas, and forest paths. They also promoted responsible hiking practices, including taking rubbish home.

To encourage sustainable habits, volunteers distributed reusable gauze handkerchiefs and natural cinnamon insect repellents as alternatives to disposable products.

One volunteer said, “Picking up the litter reminded me of the value of Mudeungsan. I hope more citizens will take an interest in protecting nature.”

An environmental organisation official said, “Environmental protection is most effective when citizens and organisations work together.”

A Shincheonji Volunteer Group official added, “Environmental protection begins with small daily actions. We will continue working with local communities and environmental organisations.”

The activity followed a request from a nearby building employee concerned about illegally dumped waste, including cigarette butts and disposable cups, around the ‘Our Neighbourhood Parking Lot’ and surrounding streets.

Starting at 8am, volunteers removed litter from the parking lot and nearby school routes, focusing on areas that are difficult to maintain due to heavy pedestrian traffic.

Volunteer Min-ho Park, 45, said, “There were many cigarette butts along the roadside and in the flowerbeds, so cleaning them up felt urgent.” He added that greater civic awareness is needed to prevent illegal dumping.

A branch official said, “It is meaningful to respond to local residents’ concerns and help provide students with a cleaner route to school.”

Meanwhile, the branch plans to continue community-focused environmental activities.

Source: vo.la/aHs5RKu

Jean Baptiste Uwarugira, a Rwandan lawyer and human rights advocate with extensive experience in the judiciary and human-rights sector, has called on the South Korean judiciary to release ManHee Lee, chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, from pretrial detention and allow him to stand trial without being held in custody.

In an opinion article published on the 16th July, Uwarugira argued that Chairman Lee's continued detention, given his age of 95, raises concerns regarding the principle of presumption of innocence. Citing Article 11 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, he stressed that anyone charged with a criminal offence is entitled to be presumed innocent and to receive the guarantees necessary for their defence.

Uwarugira explained that pretrial detention is intended to address specific risks, such as flight or interference with witnesses and evidence, and should be used only when less restrictive measures are inadequate.

He argued that Chairman Lee's age, status as a Korean War veteran, and longstanding public activities should be considered when assessing these risks. He also noted that alternatives such as bail, regular reporting, electronic monitoring, and travel restrictions can safeguard court proceedings while avoiding unnecessary detention.

Uwarugira therefore called for Chairman Lee to face trial without detention, arguing that this would better uphold the principles of fairness, proportionality, and respect for fundamental human rights.

Source: vo.la/M8bTXDY

Dr. Sarteep Aziz Fars, an Iraqi professor of Islamic studies, has called for the freedom and right to life of ManHee Lee, chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, to be respected in light of his age and lifelong commitment to peace.

In a Zoom interview on the 25th July with Cheonji Ilbo, also known as News Cheonji, a South Korean national daily newspaper and online news outlet, Professor Fars expressed deep respect for Chairman Lee, a 96-year-old Korean War veteran, highlighting his efforts to promote peace for future generations despite having experienced the hardships of war himself.

“We must respect his age, as well as his contributions to peace and his efforts to achieve it,” Professor Fars said. “While many people at that age focus on their own safety, he has devoted himself to creating a peaceful future for the next generation and people around the world.”

Professor Fars also expressed concern about Chairman Lee’s detention and investigation amid extreme heat and before a final judicial ruling.

“I hope that Chairman Lee will be guaranteed the right to life to which he is entitled, as well as the right to live freely, like everyone else,” he said.

He concluded by emphasising the importance of protecting fundamental freedoms, including liberty, the right to life, and freedom of political and religious activity.

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Over the past three years, Andrew Church volunteers have carried out 110 plogging activities in Dong District and around the Andrew Training Centre.

During a recent “Dong-gu Rang Jupging” campaign, more than 80 students and teachers collected around 500 litres of household waste. Rather than choosing convenient locations, volunteers focused on areas identified by residents as needing attention.

Their environmental efforts are complemented by seasonal community activities:

- Spring: Potted flowers and New Year greetings for local residents.

- Summer: Gifts, balloon art and snacks for local children.

- Chuseok and Lunar New Year: Traditional rice cakes for senior centres and local shops.

- Late autumn: Homemade cookies and treats delivered to more than 30 local merchants and city bus drivers.

Continued engagement has helped build trust with local shopkeepers, some of whom now warmly welcome volunteers and support community activities.

In late 2026, Andrew Church plans to hold a Local Merchants’ Roundtable, creating an opportunity for business owners to share challenges and discuss practical ways to support the local economy.

Following a resident survey in May 2026, the church has also incorporated community feedback into its activities, consulting residents and local authorities before clean-up events to ensure they address local needs without disrupting daily life.

Andrew Church’s approach centres on consistency, communication and genuine relationships rather than one-off events. By listening to residents and treating neighbours as partners, its volunteers continue to strengthen community connections and contribute to a cleaner, warmer neighbourhood in Busan.

Source: https://vo.la/1uIJMSl

Around 60 veterans from nine related organisations attended. The programme featured a trot performance, a photo presentation highlighting veterans’ sacrifices, and messages of gratitude from children, students and young adults.

Volunteers served samgyetang (chicken soup) and fruit and visited veterans unable to attend, delivering meals and expressing their appreciation.

A veterans’ organisation official said, “We are grateful that you remembered us and visited again this year. We truly appreciate your continued care.”

Volunteer Hye-young Joo, 52, said meeting the veterans was deeply moving and that she hoped they would remain healthy for many years.

A Chungju Branch official said, “Serving meals is not merely about sharing food; it is about sharing our hearts. We remain committed to walking alongside our marginalised neighbours and continuing this tradition of sharing.”

Source: https://v.daum.net/v/UA9yC0FYsY

Social isolation among young people has emerged as a growing concern in South Korea. A report by the Korea Economic Association and the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs estimated that approximately 538,000 young adults aged 19–34 were socially reclusive in 2024, more than double the 244,000 recorded in 2022. The report also estimated the annual social and economic costs of prolonged isolation at more than KRW 5.3 trillion.

In response, Shincheonji Church of Jesus, John Tribe (Gwacheon Church) has developed interest-based small groups where young adults can form connections through shared hobbies and activities.

Rather than relying on formal or rigid structures, Gwacheon Church offers small groups focused on activities such as photography, dance, keychain making, outdoor trips and sports. The approach allows participants to develop relationships gradually in a comfortable environment.

For 29-year-old Ye-ji Lee, the groups provided encouragement during a difficult period of career uncertainty and social anxiety.

“When I blamed myself and built walls around myself, the warmth and support of my small-group members gave me great strength,” she said. “With encouragement and advice from mentors, I gradually overcame my fear of communicating with others.”

For some participants, the experience has developed into a desire to contribute to others.

Tae-hee Lee, 28, experienced social isolation after graduating from secondary school, partly due to difficult working conditions and experiences of social prejudice. Taking on a leadership role within a small group helped him develop stronger relationships and a greater sense of purpose.

“Isolation made my thoughts and actions focused mainly on myself,” Lee said. “Through interacting with the group, I learned the value of considering others, and that gradually developed into leadership. The experience helped me become someone who could contribute to society.”

Today, Lee volunteers in his community, teaching smartphone skills to senior citizens and participating in environmental cleanups.

A representative of Shincheonji Gwacheon Church said the role of religion should extend beyond numerical growth to helping people build meaningful connections with society.

Through shared interests, mutual support and community participation, the small-group initiative aims to provide young adults experiencing isolation with opportunities to reconnect, develop confidence and contribute to their communities.

Source: https://vo.la/jAJmaz5