International human rights groups have expressed serious concerns about the state of freedom of religion and expression in South Korea, particularly regarding the pre-trial detention of elderly religious leaders. In a press conference held at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents' Club, organizations including Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF) and CAP Liberté de Conscience called on South Korean authorities to ensure that legal responses to religious minorities are neutral, proportionate, and consistent with international human rights obligations.
The focus of the conference was on the case of 95-year-old Shincheonji Chairman Lee Man-hee, whose detention has raised questions of proportionality and humanitarian considerations. The groups also highlighted the case of 83-year-old Hak-ja Han Moon of the Family Federation. Hans Noot, Associate Director of HRWF, emphasized that the issues at stake "lie at the heart of democratic society," warning that stigmatizing religious communities and restricting peaceful gatherings can have far-reaching consequences.
Thierry Valle, President of CAP Liberté de Conscience, referenced South Korea's ratification of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention against Torture, questioning whether detaining a 95-year-old is consistent with these obligations. He stressed the importance of the presumption of innocence and cited precedents from other countries where alternative measures were used for elderly religious figures.
Michael Langhans of FOREF Germany provided legal analysis suggesting that pre-trial detention may not be necessary if evidence is sufficient for indictment, and raised concerns about whether evidence was gathered neutrally or through a narrative framing the community as a "sect." He argued that measures meant to protect elections should not nullify the right to freedom of religion.
Márk Nemes of CESNUR discussed the global impact of the persecution of Shincheonji, noting that recent studies in Europe, Argentina, and Australia have found increased hostility toward the movement. He stressed that Shincheonji is a global religious community, and the treatment of its members in South Korea affects believers worldwide.
Massimo Introvigne, Managing Director of CESNUR, stated that South Korea "has crossed a worrying line" by arresting Chairman Lee, arguing that international standards like the Mandela Rules would favor house arrest for a 95-year-old accused of a non-violent offense. He described the charges as "legally and conceptually overstretched" and part of a broader pattern of pressure against minority faiths.
The organizations also noted ongoing concerns about the Segero Church in Busan, which continues to face scrutiny, and about conscientious objection, with critics saying that alternative civilian service is implemented punitively. The conference concluded with the signing of an official letter calling for the immediate release of Chairman Lee from custody.
