On the morning of the 3rd, Venerable Yongsan, abbot of Bogwangsa Temple of the Korean Buddhist Jogye Order, held a one-person protest near the courthouse, praying and striking a wooden drum for an hour to call for the release of Shincheonji Chairman ManHee Lee.

Holding a sign calling for Chairman Lee’s basic human rights and an investigation without detention, Venerable Yongsan expressed concern over the prolonged detention of the 96-year-old and urged authorities to proceed with the investigation without custody.

Before the protest, he said, “It is deeply regrettable that an elderly person is being investigated while detained for such a long period.” He added that prolonged detention can cause serious psychological stress and said he would pray for Chairman Lee’s release from custody.

Rather than chanting slogans, Venerable Yongsan spent the hour praying and striking the wooden drum. Reflecting on Chairman Lee’s situation, he said he felt heavy-hearted seeing an elderly person detained for so long and acknowledged that anyone could potentially face injustice.

Based on his observations of Chairman Lee’s activities, he said, “I believe he is someone who has sincerely devoted himself to world peace.” He also noted that religious figures who have spoken out about the matter likely have their own reasons and convictions.

After the protest, Venerable Yongsan emphasised that fundamental rights should be respected throughout the investigation and trial process in a liberal democratic society. He also expressed hope that people from various religious communities would take an interest and raise their voices.

Citizens attending other court proceedings watched the protest and some spoke with him. Despite the attention, Venerable Yongsan remained focused and completed the full hour of prayer.

The protest was intended to raise concerns about the prolonged detention of an elderly suspect and call for an investigation without detention, rather than comment on the outcome of the ongoing investigation or trial.