Shincheonji Church of Jesus Denounces Government Investigations as Religious Discrimination Following Court Acquittals

Shincheonji Church of Jesus, a Christian organization founded in 1984 by Chairman Lee Man-hee, has voiced concerns over what it describes as religious discrimination through targeted government investigations. Despite a series of court acquittals, the church reports a pattern of scrutiny that intensified during the COVID-19 outbreak in 2020. Authorities conducted multiple search-and-seizure operations, including a high-profile raid led by then-Gyeonggi Province Gov. Lee Jae-myung.

The church, which has seen rapid growth with annual membership increases exceeding 100,000, argues that these actions are politically motivated. After being acquitted of major charges related to alleged violations of the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act, Shincheonji officials assert that resolved judicial matters are being reused to fuel political and public attacks.

Shincheonji emphasizes its identity as a religious community, distancing itself from political conflict and urging authorities to cease using the church as a scapegoat. The organization calls for national unity, highlighting the importance of accountability and justice in maintaining public trust, as reflected in biblical principles such as Micah 6:8, which calls for justice, mercy, and humility.

The church’s experience underscores the challenges faced by religious organizations in navigating governance and legal disputes while striving to uphold financial integrity and public trust. As the church continues to advocate for its rights, the situation serves as a reminder of the need for careful legal and institutional language in addressing such complex issues.

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