A coalition of 235 civic organisations has urged the Seoul Central District Court to grant medical bail to ManHee Lee, the 95-year-old leader of Shincheonji Church, citing his age, deteriorating health and the need to uphold human dignity.

Led by the North Chungcheong Provincial Companion Promotion Committee, the groups held a press conference outside the court on Thursday, calling for Chairman Lee’s release after more than two months in detention.

Chairman Lee was granted a temporary suspension of imprisonment on 1st September for urgent medical treatment. The suspension, originally due to end on 6th September, was extended to 11th September to allow continued hospital care.

Speakers stressed that determining Chairman Lee’s guilt or innocence remains solely the responsibility of the judiciary. However, they argued that his advanced age and serious health condition warrant humanitarian consideration and a non-custodial trial.

The groups’ appeal focused on three points:

- Recognising the seriousness of Chairman Lee’s health at age 95

- Considering his reported contributions to international peace and Korea’s national prestige

- Granting bail in accordance with respect for life and human dignity

Ki-geun Park, chairman of the Yongsan District Senior Group and himself over 90 years old, spoke about the physical challenges faced by elderly people based on his own experience.

He said, “Once you reach your 90s, there is hardly a part of the body that doesn’t hurt. When elderly people become less active, they quickly lose weight and muscle, and regaining that strength can be very difficult.”

He continued, “Please enforce the law as prescribed, but allow him to remain out of detention.” He made an emotional appeal, asking, “How much hardship must a person of that age endure?”

Kim stated, “While personally interviewing the Chief Minister of Mindanao and 14 prominent figures from various sectors, I confirmed that Chairman ManHee Lee had played a mediating role in bringing an end to the 40-year conflict in Mindanao.”

He continued, “It is deeply regrettable that a 95-year-old man, nearing 100, must remain detained and unable to fully exercise his right to defend himself, particularly when people in other countries recognise differences and work towards peace.” He appealed to the court, saying, “Please grant him bail so that he can fully exercise his legal rights, freely explain his position regarding the charges, and stand trial. The appeal from 235 organisations is ultimately a request to protect fundamental rights, and I sincerely ask the court for humanitarian consideration.”

Source: vo.la/IT6p1rc