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Shincheonji Church Leader Lee Man-hee Arrested in South Korea Election Probe

The 95-year-old founder was detained as authorities investigate claims that followers were recruited into a political party to sway elections.

Marcus Reeve

Writer ·

3 min read
South Korean courthouse exterior
South Korean courthouse exterior · Illustrative section image

Lee Man-hee, the 95-year-old leader of the Shincheonji Church, has been arrested as South Korean authorities investigate allegations that followers were recruited into a political party in an attempt to influence elections.

The allegations

The inquiry centres on claims that members of the controversial church were organised in a way intended to sway electoral outcomes. The arrest of its long-standing founder marks a significant escalation in the case.

What happens next

Prosecutors are expected to press their investigation as the legal process unfolds. The case has drawn intense attention given the church's prominence and the seriousness of the election-interference allegations.

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