An international humanitarian appeal submitted by the National Interfaith Council of South Africa (NICSA) has been submitted to the Judiciary of the Republic of Korea, calling for careful consideration of the age, health, and due process rights of Chairman Lee Man-Hee, the 95-year-old founder of Shincheonji Church of Jesus and representative of Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), amid ongoing legal proceedings.
The petition expresses full respect for the independence of the Korean judiciary while urging that humanitarian principles remain central to the proceedings. It asks the Court to ensure that Chairman Lee can participate meaningfully in his defense and that any measures taken reflect his advanced age, reported need for medical care, and longstanding public identity.
Chairman Lee was taken into custody in June 2026 in connection with allegations that Shincheonji members were mobilized to join the People Power Party between 2021 and 2024. Media reports state that the court cited concerns over possible evidence destruction when issuing the arrest warrant, while Shincheonji has denied wrongdoing and stated that Lee and the church representatives cooperated with investigators throughout the process.
The humanitarian concern has gained wider international attention because the case involves non-violent allegations and an elderly religious figure whose health may be placed at risk by prolonged detention. Religious freedom observers and scholars have raised questions about proportionality, particularly where pre-trial detention affects a person of advanced age and where less restrictive alternatives may still protect the integrity of legal proceedings.
Beyond the courtroom, the petition highlights Lee’s role in international peacebuilding through HWPL, an international peace NGO registered in the Republic of Korea and associated with the United Nations Department of Global Communications, with Special Consultative Status at the United Nations Economic and Social Council. HWPL’s work includes peace education, interfaith dialogue, youth engagement, and advocacy for a culture of peace across national, cultural, and religious boundaries.
A central example cited in the petition is the civilian-led peace initiative in Mindanao, Philippines. In January 2014, HWPL facilitated a peace agreement involving Catholic and Islamic representatives in a region affected by decades of conflict. The initiative helped inspire continuing commemorations such as HWPL Peace Day and remains a symbolic example of interfaith cooperation, civic peacebuilding, and reconciliation.
The appeal does not ask the Court to disregard the law or evidence. Instead, it calls for a balanced approach: one that protects the integrity of the judicial process while also safeguarding human dignity, health, and the right to a full and effective defense.
This petition respects the authority and independence of the Korean judiciary. At the same time, it appeals for humanitarian consideration so that age, health, dignity, and due process are fully protected while the legal process continues.