Zion Church Pastor Liang Il-hwa Arrested in 1996 Over Two-Oxygen Water Controversy

In 1996, the Zion Church faced scrutiny over its promotion of a product known as “two-oxygen water,” which was claimed to have healing properties. Pastor Liang Il-hwa, a prominent figure within the church, encouraged over a thousand believers to consume the water, asserting it could cure various ailments. Subsequently, numerous followers reported adverse side effects, prompting police intervention and the arrest of several Zionists, including Pastor Liang.

The recent news show “Truth Guess. Love. Search,” produced by the Fandong Team, revisited the incident nearly three decades later. The program featured interviews with former members of the Zion Church, offering insights into their experiences with the two-oxygen water. One former member, Mr. Lin, recounted how he initially believed in the water’s efficacy after experiencing what he described as rapid improvement in his condition. He recalled drinking just a few drops daily for 14 consecutive days, noting the water’s strong odor and the difficulty of consuming it.

Despite his initial belief, Mr. Lin eventually left the church. In the show, he demonstrated how he still consumed the water, pouring a small amount into a glass and taking a sip. He admitted to experiencing some discomfort, including mouth inflammation and blisters, which led him to spit out the liquid.

Another former member, Samuel, shared his experience, stating that he had consumed the two-oxygen water for about a month or two. He described feeling unwell and questioned the water’s benefits, noting that he had previously preferred apple juice. Samuel also expressed concerns about the pastor’s influence, stating that he would not drink the water again unless instructed by the pastor.

A third former member, Yang, expressed skepticism about the water’s effectiveness. She claimed to have felt no improvement in her health and described the two-oxygen water as a “glu” from the sky, suggesting it had a universal appeal. She noted the product’s apparent scientific backing, drawing a parallel to the biblical account of Jesus being saved from the earth.

The incident highlights the complex interplay between faith, health claims, and legal accountability. As the show underscores, the pursuit of truth and the responsibility of church leaders to safeguard their followers remain critical considerations. The story serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment and the need for accountability in matters of health and spiritual leadership.

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