European Advocates Urge Release of Elderly Shincheonji Founder on Humanitarian Grounds

SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA — A coalition of European scholars and human rights advocates has urged the South Korean government to release Shincheonji founder Lee Man-hee from pre-trial detention, citing humanitarian concerns over the 95-year-old's age and health. At a press conference at the Seoul Foreign Correspondents' Club, organized by Human Rights Without Frontiers (HRWF) and other European groups, the signatories, including HRWF Associate Director Hans Noot, CESNUR Managing Director Massimo Introvigne, and CAP-LC President Thierry Valle, argued that Lee's case is being influenced by prejudice against Shincheonji, which is often labeled a 'cult' by opponents. The group stressed that while they respect South Korea's judicial process, they believe detention is disproportionate for a non-violent defendant of advanced age, citing European Union standards and UN Mandela Rules. They formally requested Lee's release so he can stand trial without being held in custody.

The appeal was supported by local voices, including Venerable Beopsan of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, who emphasized that threats to religious freedom affect society as a whole, and Ryu Jae-sik, head of the Seoul branch of the Association of Korean War Veterans, who noted Lee's wartime service and his current frailty. Ryu questioned the necessity of imprisoning an elderly veteran who poses no flight risk or evidence tampering threat, calling the detention a cruel measure that endangers his health. The event organizers hope the case will spark broader discussions on freedom of religion and equal treatment under the law in South Korea, urging authorities to ensure legal processes remain neutral and proportionate. The signatories' letter concluded with a plea for Lee's immediate release on humanitarian grounds, emphasizing that his case should be handled in accordance with international standards protecting older defendants.