South Korea Detains Shincheonji Church Founder in Election Influence Investigation
South Korean authorities have arrested Lee Man-hee, the 95-year-old founder of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, as part of an investigation into alleged political interference involving one of the country’s major political parties. Prosecutors claim Lee played a central role in directing thousands of church followers to participate in party activities in violation of South Korean election laws.
The arrest marks a significant development in an ongoing probe into the relationship between religious organizations and politics in South Korea, where the law prohibits religious groups from engaging in political activities.
Prosecutors Allege Illegal Political Recruitment
According to investigators, Lee is accused of violating the Political Parties Act and obstructing the investigation by allegedly organizing a large-scale campaign that encouraged more than 50,000 church members to join the conservative People Power Party between 2021 and 2024.
Authorities believe the recruitment effort was intended to influence candidate selection and national elections, including the 2022 presidential race and the 2024 parliamentary election. A Seoul court approved Lee’s arrest after determining there was a possibility that evidence could be destroyed if he remained free during the investigation.
Lee appeared before the court but did not publicly respond to questions regarding the allegations.
Wider Investigation Into Religious Influence
The case is part of a broader investigation into alleged political involvement by religious organizations in South Korea. Officials are examining whether certain religious groups attempted to influence political decision-making or election outcomes through coordinated membership drives and other activities.
The Shincheonji Church has remained a controversial organization for years and drew international attention during the COVID-19 pandemic after a major outbreak was linked to its members. While Lee previously faced legal proceedings connected to the pandemic, he was later cleared of public health-related charges.
Church representatives have denied wrongdoing in the current case and have expressed concern over Lee’s age and health while legal proceedings continue.
South Korean prosecutors are expected to continue gathering evidence as the investigation moves forward, with additional legal proceedings likely in the coming months.
