A coalition of European scholars and human rights advocates has formally requested that the South Korean government release Shincheonji founder Lee Man-hee from pre-trial detention, arguing that the continued incarceration of the 95-year-old religious leader raises serious humanitarian and human rights concerns. The appeal was made during a press conference at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents' Club, organized by Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF) and several European organizations focused on freedom of religion and belief.
The signatories, who visited Lee in detention the day before, emphasized that they do not seek to interfere with South Korea's judicial process. However, they expressed concern that the case is unfolding in an environment tainted by prejudice against Shincheonji. Their formal letter to the South Korean government states: "We hold the deepest respect for the democratic institutions of the Republic of Korea and have no desire to interfere with the functioning of its justice system. We note, however, that the case against Chairman Lee unfolds in a climate where media representations of Shincheonji as a 'cult' often rely on polemical accounts by religious opponents who denounce it as 'heresy,' while disregarding the findings of academic research."
The group argued that Lee's advanced age should be a decisive factor in detention decisions, noting that in the European Union, pre-trial detention for elderly defendants is typically reserved for violent offenses. "Chairman Lee is ninety-five years old," the letter reads. "In the European Union, from which we come, pre-trial detention for older defendants is considered an exceptional measure, permitted only when violent crimes are alleged, which is not the case here. In comparable situations, defendants are placed under house arrest." They further referenced the United Nations Mandela Rules, concluding: "For humanitarian reasons, and in accordance with international principles protecting older defendants, we respectfully request the immediate release of Chairman Lee from custody, so that he may stand trial without being held in detention."
Among the signatories are HRWF Associate Director Hans Noot, CESNUR Managing Director Massimo Introvigne, CAP-LC President Thierry Valle, FOREF Germany Executive Director Michael Langhans, and CESNUR Deputy Director Dr. Mark Nemes. At the conference, organizers underscored that the discussion extends beyond Lee's individual case to broader questions about religious freedom in South Korea, particularly the treatment of religious minorities. They insisted that legal processes must remain "neutral, proportionate, and consistent with South Korea's international human-rights obligations."
Speaking on behalf of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, Executive Chief Venerable Beopsan emphasized that threats to freedom and human rights affect society as a whole. "Threats to the freedom and human rights of others are by no means merely an issue for individuals or specific religions; they affect the peace and coexistence of our entire society," he said. While acknowledging the state's duty to uphold law and order, Beopsan stressed that "fundamental human rights and freedom of religion must not be infringed upon on the grounds of a specific religion, nor should social prejudice and discrimination be justified." He cited Buddhist teachings on compassion and non-discrimination, adding that "a democratic society can become healthier when it protects the rights of minorities."
Ryu Jae-sik, head of the Seoul branch of the Association of Korean War Veterans, also questioned Lee's detention while clarifying that he is not asking for any wrongdoing to be overlooked. "I stand here today not to ask for the unconditional covering up of someone's faults," Ryu said. "Rather, I wish to ask whether the fundamental human rights and freedom of religion, which every citizen of the Republic of Korea is entitled to, are currently being upheld fairly." Ryu noted that Shincheonji members have supported Korean War veterans through volunteer work and food assistance, and he expressed dismay at the church's current treatment. Referring to Lee's military service, Ryu said, "At 96 years old, he is in a state of extreme frailty where he struggles even to care for his own health. Is it absolutely necessary to imprison an elderly war veteran who has a secure residence, poses no risk of escape, and is not in a condition to destroy evidence? This goes beyond mere detention; it is a cruel measure that directly threatens a person's right to life and health."
The hosting organizations hope the case will prompt a wider discussion on freedom of religion, freedom of expression, and equal treatment under the law in South Korea. The appeal highlights the tension between judicial processes and the protection of fundamental rights for vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly. As the international community watches, the decision rests with South Korean authorities to balance legal requirements with humanitarian considerations.
