The Eastern Seoul Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group carried out Chuseok volunteer activities for elderly residents and war veterans in Nowon and Dobong, Seoul.

On the 21st, around 30 volunteers visited the House of Peace in Nowon District, where they played traditional Yutnori with about 30 seniors and distributed 60 kg of songpyeon. Later that day, they visited the Nowon District and Dobong District branches of the Korean War Veterans Association, delivering 100 kg of rice cakes and checking on the veterans.

The Eastern Seoul Branch has supported seniors and war veterans in the area for 13 years through holiday donations, birthday celebrations, longevity portraits, massages, handwritten letters, and home visits.

According to the Northern Seoul Office of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, as of August 2026, 2233 Korean and Vietnam War veterans lived in Nowon District and 1716 in Dobong District.

An official from the Eastern Seoul Branch said, “We conducted volunteer activities to check on the well-being of local elderly residents and war veterans ahead of Chuseok,” adding, “We will continue to visit the community and carry out volunteer work in the future.”

Source: vo.la/DpkmN7Q

On the 22nd, Mr. Jeong Byeong-pyo, 85, of Ojeong District, Bucheon, expressed his gratitude after receiving a haircut and beauty service at the Welfare Centre for the Disabled in Wonjong-dong, Bucheon.

The centre was transformed into a neighborhood hair salon as volunteers provided haircuts and styling to elderly people with disabilities. Rather than offering standard cuts, volunteers considered each person’s face shape and hair condition before finishing with blow-drying and styling. While waiting, seniors were accompanied by volunteers who talked with them and listened to their everyday concerns.

The Bucheon Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group, led by Branch Manager Gyu-chan Kim, organised the service for elderly people with disabilities affiliated with the Bucheon Branch of the Gyeonggi Provincial Welfare Association for the Disabled. The activity was supported by volunteers with more than 20 years of experience in the beauty industry, who donated their professional skills to the local community.

The initiative aimed to address the difficulties many elderly people with disabilities face when travelling to hair salons because of mobility challenges. Instead of requiring seniors to travel, volunteers brought the service directly to them.

Ki-ho Kim, chairman of the Bucheon Branch of the Gyeonggi Association for the Welfare of the Disabled, highlighted the practical challenges involved, saying, “There were many cases where we had to arrange transportation for elderly people who normally find it difficult to visit hair salons.”

The Shincheonji Volunteer Group has worked in cooperation with the Bucheon Branch of the Gyeonggi Provincial Welfare Association for the Disabled for the past five years. Since beginning the hair and beauty service last month, volunteers have continued to provide support tailored to the needs of elderly people with disabilities.

Beyond haircuts, volunteers also spent time talking with seniors as they waited, asking about their well-being and listening to their stories. The initiative therefore provided not only practical grooming services, but also companionship and personal attention to members of the local community.

Source: vo.la/ZsN51Vq

Ahead of Chuseok, the Gongju Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group held an environmental clean-up at Gongju Veterans Memorial Park from 4 to 6pm on the 19th. Twenty volunteers collected 180 litres of fallen leaves and rubbish, cleared the park’s paths and surroundings, and cleaned the monument honouring national merit recipients.

The activity aimed to honour national merit recipients and encourage reflection on their sacrifices. A representative of the Republic of Korea Association of Meritorious Service Medal Recipients visited the site and thanked the volunteers for their efforts.

One young volunteer said, “While volunteering at the Veterans Memorial Park, I thought of those who silently dedicated themselves to the country.” The volunteer added, “I will remember the value of today, which we enjoy thanks to their sacrifice and dedication, and I will not forget to be grateful in my daily life.”

Branch Manager Dae-ro Jeong said, “The environmental clean-up of the Veterans Memorial Park goes beyond simply cleaning up the surroundings; it will serve as an opportunity for citizens to recall the dedication of national merit recipients once again and share the spirit of patriotism.”

The Gongju Branch plans to continue supporting national merit recipients through volunteer activities with local veterans’ organisations.

Source: vo.la/IWQgqPS

During Chuseok, the Andrew Church of Shincheonji Church of Jesus visited local businesses and residents in Beomil-dong, Busan, to exchange holiday greetings.

On the 19th, 16 volunteers visited 21 local businesses near the Andrew Training Centre, delivering handmade nuts and snacks and sharing Chuseok greetings. Four volunteers wore traditional hanbok, adding to the festive atmosphere. Shop owners warmly welcomed the volunteers, with some offering them coffee, snacks and drinks in return.

The church said repeated visits have helped build closer relationships with local merchants, with interactions extending beyond holiday greetings to regular check-ins and mutual support.

The volunteers also gathered feedback from residents. One resident suggested, “It would be nice to greet and share with residents as well as the shops.” The resident responded positively when volunteers said they would organise future activities involving local residents.

An Andrew Church representative said, “We place more significance on meeting local shop owners and residents in person to greet them and listen to their stories than on simply delivering gifts for the holidays.” The representative added, “We will continue to visit the community regularly to listen to the voices of residents and engage in activities that allow us to be together, rather than limiting our efforts to just the holidays.”

The Andrew Church plans to continue environmental clean-ups, seasonal sharing and other community activities, incorporating feedback from local merchants and residents.

Source: vo.la/Y00b4Va

Ahead of Chuseok, Shincheonji Church of Jesus’ Seoul Church delivered songpyeon and locally produced rice to 45 businesses in Nowon District, Seoul, on 22nd September.

Starting at 1pm, four volunteers dressed in hanbok visited nearby shops, including businesses in Hara Plaza, to share the gifts and exchange holiday greetings with local merchants.

Myeong-hee Han (female, 50s), who witnessed the event, said, “She looks so beautiful in her hanbok,” adding, “I hope there will be more opportunities for local residents to take part in community activities like this.”

A Seoul Church representative said, “We wanted to personally meet local business owners, exchange greetings and hear how they have been doing as we celebrate the holiday.”

Seoul Church also continues to support the local community through regular environmental clean-ups and sharing initiatives.

Source: vo.la/dPWi7mm

The Seoul Branch of the Korean War Veterans Association is holding a press conference in front of the Seoul Central District Court on the morning of 7th September, urging the granting of medical bail for the detained Chairman ManHee Lee of Shincheonji Church of Jesus. (A.I. generated)

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.”

Chairman 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.”

Source: vo.la/mZkIcfU

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.”

Source: vo.la/5bLjdLJ

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.

Source: vo.la/meaFXb0

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