South Korean court denies bail for Shincheonji leader Lee Man‑hee, keeping him in custody

Seoul Central District Court rejected Lee Man‑hee’s request for a detention review, stating there was no reason to grant his bail petition. The 95‑year‑old head of the Shincheonji religious group remains in custody while investigators continue probing allegations that he forced tens of thousands of followers to join the ruling People Power Party (국민의힘) ahead of the 2021 presidential and 2024 legislative elections.

Prosecutors and police allege that Lee organized a “Pilates project” to systematically enroll Shincheonji members as party affiliates, violating South Korea’s Political Parties Act and obstructing party activities. The joint investigation unit (합동수사본부) has identified at least 56,000 members allegedly coerced into party membership and is pursuing additional charges related to the cult’s broader political interference.

The court’s decision means Lee will remain detained as the investigation proceeds, with no immediate prospect of release.