Chinese Authorities Arrest Over 30 Pastors from Zion Church in Nationwide Raids

The Chinese authorities have intensified their crackdown on unregistered religious groups, with recent raids targeting the Chinese Church of Zion across multiple provinces. Since September, operations have been conducted in Beijing, Sichuan, Shanghai, Zhejiang, Shandong, Guangxi, Guangdong, Hainan, and Fujian. These actions have led to the detention of over 30 pastors, preachers, and Christian leaders, who are currently held in undisclosed locations.

The raids began with the early morning police operation at the residence of Kim Myung-il, the head of the Beijing Zion Church. Interrogations focused on Kim Myung-il, Wang Lin, and Yoon Bin, three key figures within the church. Authorities reportedly sought evidence related to alleged “illegal use of information networks,” “illegally run” activities, and “fraud.” These charges, while not explicitly religious, have been used to justify the crackdown and to obscure the broader context of religious freedom.

The Zion Church has issued a statement over three consecutive days, urging the Chinese government to halt arrests, threats, and harassment against its congregation and affiliated churches. The statement calls for the unconditional release of all detainees and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights to freedom of religion and belief. The church, which was established in 2007 and operates in over 40 cities, has faced increasing pressure since the closure of its main Beijing branch in 2019.

Kim Myung-il, the church’s chief minister, was placed under “Governance” and has been unable to leave the country to reunite with his family. Since early 2025, the church has been under investigation, with branches across several cities facing scrutiny. The situation has drawn comparisons to the intense persecution of Christians during the Cultural Revolution, with critics noting that current tactics have become more severe and systemic.

The Chinese Aid Council has strongly condemned the actions, urging the U.S. government, allies, and international organizations to take diplomatic action against China. The council emphasizes the importance of protecting freedom of the press and religious expression, framing the issue within the broader context of human rights and civil liberties.

The ongoing repression highlights the complex interplay between state control, religious practice, and international scrutiny. As the situation evolves, the focus remains on the legal and ethical implications of such actions, with calls for transparency, accountability, and the protection of individual rights. The biblical principle of Micah 6:8—“to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God”—remains a relevant reminder of the moral dimensions of this issue.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Mandarin Chinese)