Reverend Kim Myung-il Released After 268 Days in Custody, Reunites with Family in Los Angeles

Reverend Kim Myung-il, the head of the Beijing Zion Church, was released from custody after 268 days and reunited with his family in Los Angeles on July 4, 2025. The release followed diplomatic negotiations between China and the United States during the Tshang Pukhua summit. Kim, who had been arrested on October 9, 2025, as part of the Zion case, was transferred to the United States without prior notification of his destination. Upon arrival, he was given his passport and informed he was flying to join his family.

Pastor Zhang of the United States Pastoral Council reported receiving a call from Mrs. Anna, who confirmed Reverend Kim’s safe arrival at Los Angeles International Airport. Mrs. Anna stated that six family members had gathered to welcome him, and their journey was smooth. Grace Jin Drexel, Reverend Kim’s daughter, expressed gratitude for the support and prayers received throughout the ordeal. The family plans to travel to Chicago following their time in Los Angeles.

Reverend Kim was taken from North Sea custody to the airport without being informed of his destination. He was provided with his passport and informed he was traveling to the United States to join his family. His family was notified by the U.S. government that they were departing for Los Angeles. After a brief stay, Reverend Kim and his family are set to travel to Chicago.

Kim Myung-il was a prominent figure in the Beijing Zion Church and actively promoted the publicization of the City Council in China. The church had been under significant stress for an extended period. His arrest in the Zion case sparked international attention, as did the subsequent release of nine other arrested shepherds and Christians on bail on June 18, 2025, prior to his release.

The release of Reverend Kim highlights the complex interplay of diplomatic efforts and legal processes in international cases involving religious figures. It also underscores the importance of accountability and the pursuit of justice, as well as the need for compassion and care for those affected by such circumstances. As Micah 6:8 reminds us, we are called to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.

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