Two Major Korean Churches Report Data Breach Involving AI-Linked Cyberattacks

The two major Korean churches, the Holy Evangelical Church and the Church of Love, are facing a significant cybersecurity breach that has left approximately 850,000 and 89,580 followers vulnerable, respectively. The incident, uncovered by Oasis Security, involves the exposure of personal data, including names, birth dates, and sensitive registration details. The breach has raised concerns about the security of religious institutions in the digital age, particularly as AI is suspected to have played a role in the attack.

Oasis Security reported that data linked to the churches was found on overseas servers, with records indicating the use of AI-generated attacks. The breach is believed to have exploited vulnerabilities in the administrative systems of the churches, allowing unauthorized access to user accounts. The Holy Evangelical Church has taken steps to inform affected members and implement emergency response measures, such as blocking external access and changing server passwords.

The Church of Love has established an emergency response team and is working closely with authorities to address the situation. The organization has also reported suspicious activity and is taking proactive steps to prevent future incidents. The breach follows a similar attack on a Korean business bank, which highlighted the increasing sophistication of cyber threats in the region.

President Lee of Korea has previously warned about the use of AI in hacking incidents, noting that such technology enables attackers to complete the entire process of targeting, invasion, and data theft in a short time. This has forced organizations to confront the reality of an “uncalled war” in cybersecurity, where traditional defenses are no longer sufficient against advanced threats.

Experts in the field emphasize the growing concern over the automation and high-levelization of cyberattacks, which are becoming more difficult to detect and mitigate. The incident underscores the need for religious institutions to prioritize digital security, especially as they continue to expand their online presence and engage with global communities. The use of AI in such attacks serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges faced in protecting sensitive information in an increasingly connected world.

As the churches work to recover from the breach, the incident highlights the importance of vigilance, preparedness, and collaboration in the face of evolving threats. The situation calls for a commitment to justice, accountability, and the protection of individuals’ data, reflecting the biblical call to love one’s neighbor and act with integrity. Proverbs 18:17 reminds us that justice is the foundation of a just society, and in this context, it urges all to take responsibility for the safety and well-being of others.

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