The Shincheonji Church of Jesus has expressed profound concern over what it describes as unilateral interference by South Korean state power, arguing that recent government statements and actions constitute a grave violation of Article 20 of the Constitution of the Republic of Korea, which guarantees freedom of religion and the principle of separation of church and state. The church contends the government has explicitly targeted a specific religious group by categorically labeling it a 'social harm' and 'detriment' while mobilizing state power in a retaliatory manner.
On January 12, President Lee Jae-myung stated during a meeting with religious leaders that 'societal harm [caused by a specific religion] has been neglected for too long, resulting in great damage.' The following day, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok utilized terms such as 'cult' and 'heresy' during a Cabinet meeting to order a joint investigation and 'eradication' measures. Shincheonji argues these statements effectively draw conclusions before any formal investigation has begun, preemptively branding the religious group as a 'socially problematic entity' and potentially compromising due process and investigative principles.
While a government-mandated joint investigation is underway, the church questions by what authority a secular government defines and judges religious doctrine, and on what legal basis the highest seat of power provides 'investigative guidelines' that might undermine judicial independence. The criteria for 'orthodoxy' or 'heresy,' according to Shincheonji, must never be based on political proximity or secular interests but must be rooted solely in the Holy Scriptures.
The church has repeatedly proposed resolving theological disputes through an open, public Bible examination grounded in Scripture rather than emotion or political pressure, but reports no fair response to this invitation. Shincheonji maintains it has never claimed infallibility and is committed to correcting any genuine doctrinal or social errors if specifically identified. The church points to its community service record, including voluntary service during national disasters and leading record-breaking blood drives during supply crises, as evidence of its commitment to being a vital part of society.
Despite numerous past allegations, the judicial process has repeatedly resulted in acquittals or findings of no suspicion, according to the church. Recycling matters already settled by the courts as fuel for political and media attacks, Shincheonji argues, leads observers to question whether this reflects what the Republic of Korea stands for or marks a departure from democratic standards. The church maintains that if one religion is targeted today, any marginalized group could be targeted tomorrow.
Shincheonji Church of Jesus will continue its activities through its official website at https://www.shincheonji.kr, where it shares information about its religious practices and community engagement. The church affirms its constitutional right to freedom of religion and calls upon the government to cease emotional branding, base judgments on facts and law, and return to its fundamental duty of serving all people equally. Church members describe themselves as sincere people of the Republic of Korea who have demonstrated their commitment through cooperation with authorities, volunteerism, and life-saving blood donations.
