South Korea arrests Shincheonji founder Lee Man‑hee over political meddling

Lee Man‑hee, the 95‑year‑old founder of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, was ordered arrested by a Seoul court on charges of violating South Korea’s Political Parties Act and obstruction. Prosecutors allege that Lee directed more than 50,000 Shincheonji members to join the conservative People Power Party between 2021 and 2024 to influence presidential and parliamentary primaries.

The court cited a risk that Lee would destroy evidence, and he appeared frail, supported by aides, and declined to answer questions. The case is part of a broader investigation into religious groups’ interference in politics, which also includes scrutiny of the Unification Church. Shincheonji previously drew attention during the 2020 COVID‑19 outbreak, when many early cases were linked to its followers. Authorities say the investigation aims to determine whether the religious mobilisation was intended to secure favorable treatment for the church, such as permits for facility expansion.

The arrest follows a series of high‑profile probes by South Korea’s liberal government into former President Yoon Suk‑yeol and his allies, highlighting growing concerns over the nexus of religion and politics in the country.