International Religious Scholars Call for Release of Detained Shincheonji Church Chairman Lee Man-hee

European religious scholars and human rights advocates are requesting that the South Korean government release 95-year-old Shincheonji Church Chairman Lee Man-hee from detention. Lee was indicted in June 2026 on charges related to the Political Parties Act, specifically regarding the organized registration of church members into a political party. This development has prompted international observers to raise concerns regarding the treatment of elderly detainees and the potential implications for religious freedom within South Korea's established democratic framework.

The detention of Lee Man-hee has drawn significant international attention to the intersection of South Korean electoral law and religious institutional activity. Critics of the detention, including representatives from the European Academy of Religion and the European Federation for Freedom of Belief, argue that the legal actions taken against the 95-year-old leader deviate from international standards regarding the treatment of elderly individuals in the justice system. By categorizing the church’s political involvement as a violation of electoral law, the South Korean judiciary has created a focal point for debate regarding the legal boundaries of religious organizations participating in national political processes.

This case highlights broader tensions between state regulatory efforts and the autonomy of religious groups. The involvement of international human rights organizations, including submissions to the United Nations Human Rights Council, suggests that the situation is being framed as a test of South Korea's commitment to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. As the government continues its investigation into the alleged collusion between the church and political entities, the international community remains focused on whether judicial proceedings will prioritize the specific allegations of electoral interference or reflect broader human rights considerations. The outcome of this case may influence how future investigations into religious institutions are conducted and could impact South Korea's standing regarding the protection of religious freedoms and constitutional rights on the global stage.