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FAQ: International Concerns About Religious Freedom in South Korea
TL;DR
South Korean officials' targeting of Shincheonji Church creates political leverage opportunities amid international scrutiny of democratic backsliding.
South Korean authorities initiated investigations against Shincheonji Church following presidential condemnation, raising constitutional concerns about religious freedom protections.
This situation highlights the importance of protecting religious freedom as a fundamental democratic principle for societal harmony.
The Shincheonji controversy reveals tensions between cultural influence and democratic values in modern South Korea.
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The article discusses international criticism of South Korea's government for publicly stigmatizing and ordering investigations against the Shincheonji religious group, raising concerns about religious freedom violations and democratic regression.
Global leaders including U.S. President Donald Trump have expressed concern that South Korea's actions undermine fundamental democratic principles like freedom of religion and separation of church and state, contrasting with the country's image as a cultural powerhouse.
President Lee Jae Myung publicly condemned Shincheonji on January 12, 2026, followed by Prime Minister Kim Min-seok ordering a joint investigation aimed at 'eradication' of what they called a 'pseudo-religious group' and 'cult,' leading to law enforcement investigations and discussions about search-and-seizure operations.
Article 20 of South Korea's Constitution guarantees freedom of religion as a fundamental right, but critics argue the government's statements targeting Shincheonji without judicial rulings foster state-sponsored stigma and hostility toward a specific religion.
Shincheonji states that repeated targeted investigations amount to religious discrimination, noting that courts have consistently dropped charges or ruled 'not guilty' in previous cases, and that resolved judicial issues are being recycled as tools for political attacks.
Shincheonji first became a major focus during COVID-19 in 2020, when authorities conducted large-scale investigations over alleged infectious disease law violations, including more than ten search-and-seizure operations, though courts later acquitted the group of major charges.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and Prime Minister Kim Min-seok are leading the government actions, while Shincheonji was founded by Chairman Lee Man-hee in 1984, and international figures like U.S. President Donald Trump have expressed concern.
Observers point to a growing perception of democratic regression in South Korea, with critics asserting the President's remarks undermine constitutional principles, especially concerning given the country's recent history of presidential impeachment following an unconstitutional martial law declaration.
President Lee's public condemnation occurred on January 12, 2026, followed by the Prime Minister's order on January 13, with the article dated January 22, 2026, reporting on ongoing investigations and National Assembly discussions.
The events are centered in South Korea, specifically involving government actions in Seoul and targeting Shincheonji's headquarters and branch churches, with international concern expressed from global leaders including the United States.
Curated from 24-7 Press Release
