Holding a sign that read, “Please protect the life and human rights of the 96-year-old Korean War veteran. I earnestly appeal for an investigation without detention,” Pastor Cho urged the court to make a humanitarian judgment, citing concerns for Lee’s health and human rights.

Reflecting on Jesus’ teaching that “one life is more precious than the whole world,” Pastor Cho said he felt a deep sense of responsibility in speaking out. He described the decision to protest as difficult but said it reminded him of the calling and sense of mission he felt when he first entered seminary.

After the protest, Pastor Cho prayed for Chairman Lee’s freedom and for the current difficulties to become the beginning of “a new history” and peace.

“I hope these hardships will not end as hardships, but will surely become a new history,” he said, expressing hope that the prayers and efforts surrounding the case would ultimately lead to a positive turning point.

Though the protest lasted only an hour, Pastor Cho said he would continue praying for Chairman Lee’s health, freedom, and a favourable outcome from the court.