ZCLU Expresses Concern Over Arrest of South Korean Church Founder

By Chansa Maimbo

LUSAKA – The Zambian Civil Liberties Union (ZCLU) has expressed concern over the arrest and continued detention of 95-year-old Lee Man-hee, founder and chairman of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus in South Korea.

In a statement issued in Lusaka, ZCLU Executive Director Isaac Mwanza said the organisation regards freedom of thought, conscience and religion as fundamental human rights protected under international law.

While acknowledging South Korea's sovereign right to enforce its laws, Mr. Mwanza said ZCLU was concerned by reports suggesting what it described as a broader pattern of discrimination against members of the Shincheonji Church.

Mr. Mwanza said democracies should be judged by how well they protect the rights of religious minorities, rather than by how they treat popular or majority faiths.

He further expressed concern over the continued characterisation of the Shincheonji Church as a "cult", arguing that history has shown such labels can contribute to the persecution of religious minorities.

"The lessons of Nazi Germany and other historical atrocities remain painfully relevant when religious minorities are dehumanised," Mr. Mwanza said.

He added that participation in political life is a legitimate democratic freedom and that whether any specific conduct violated South Korean law is a matter that should be determined by the courts.

According to ZCLU, Chairman Lee was arrested on 24 June 2026 over allegations relating to South Korea's Political Parties Act.

Mr. Mwanza said any criminal proceedings should fully respect the rights to liberty, freedom of religion, freedom of association and a fair trial.

He also urged South Korean authorities to consider humanitarian alternatives to detention, noting Chairman Lee's advanced age and reported frailty.

Mr. Mwanza further called on the South Korean government to ensure equal protection for all religious communities and appealed for compassionate consideration of Chairman Lee's release.

He warned that the erosion of the rights of one religious community ultimately threatens the liberties of all.