Shincheonji: A Cult Engaged in World-Wide Deceptive Recruitment
In previous blog posts, I have mentioned Shincheonji several times, most significantly in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. The cult was blamed by South Korean officials for the worst outbreak of this virus outside of China, because they took no active measures to prevent the outbreak from spreading. Members are required to always attend services, even if they are sick.
I recently talked with Jane, an ex-member of this pseudo-Christian cult, about her five years in the cult. My purpose in doing this blog post is to expose the operation and dangers of Shincheonji in as much detail as possible. It is extremely important for everyone to understand that this cult is engaged in a world-wide effort to deceptively recruit members.
Shincheonji, was founded in South Korea by Man-Hee Lee in the 1980s. Lee claims to have a special ability to interpret Christian scripture, and claims that his interpretations are the only legitimate ones. He also claims he is immortal and salvation can only be obtained through belief in him rather than in Jesus Christ.
One of the most frequent tactics used in this cult’s recruitment efforts is through so-called Bible study programs that provide academically weak instruction. The Bible study they teach is not based on any legitimate Biblical interpretation, but is designed to promote the messages of the cult. As is done in all cults, any opposition or questioning of cult doctrine by family or friends of cult members is considered to be a “test of faith.” Members are indoctrinated to believe that Satan will work through their family members to try to destroy the “true” church (i.e., Shincheonji). Any concern or questioning expressed by family members about whether their loved one is ensnared in a cult is considered to be Satan’s work.
Lee was arrested in the late summer of 2020, but, unfortunately, he was not convicted of the charges relating to the spread of COVID-19. He was found guilty of embezzling $6.5 million, however. The court found that at least part of this money was used to purchase and maintain a luxury “palace of peace” in Seoul. The palace was supposed to be used for church purposes, but Lee did admit to “occasionally” using it as his home. Lee was given a three-year suspended sentence, thus avoiding time in prison.
Shincheonji: A Smaller Version of the Moonies, But No Less Dangerous
As Jane and I talked about our cult experiences, it was obvious that both these cults use the same or very similar practices. Shincheonji is incredibly deceptive and people often do not learn about Lee for months. Members are encouraged to lie to their family and friends too by not even disclosing their involvement, unless they believe they are recruitable. Both of them use deceptive recruitment practices, encourage breaking ties with family and friends if they encounter negative responses, and instill fear and suspicion of all “outsiders” in order to completely isolate and indoctrinate members.
Members are expected to show complete devotion to the leader and the cult beliefs and to devote long hours of work, with no compensation, to support the cult. They are often expected to donate any assets they may have to the cult. Complete dependence on the cult is created this way, making it almost impossible for members to leave.
BITE Model of Authoritarian Control Analysis of Shincheonji
Former members have an analysis of Shincheonji using my BITE Model that clearly shows this group is not a harmless church, but, like the Moonies, is an authoritarian cult.
Shincheonji and the Moonies Are Only Two of Many Cults in South Korea
There are hundreds of cults in South Korea, and many of them are engaged in world wide efforts to recruit more members. That is why the work of those like Jane who have managed to escape the mind control of a cult is so important. Providing information and support from ex-members is critical in helping others exit the cult and go through the internal deprogramming that is necessary for them to reclaim their true selves.
Further Information
Coronavirus: South Korean Shincheonji sect leader arrested – BBC News
Shincheonji Aware- Is my bible study a cult?
[J’s Story] (EN) Did you experience these in SCJ?(2)
YouTube: Shincheonji Exposed – There are many videos by ex-members and critics online
Shincheonji: Who are they? What do they believe in? Why problematic? Former member Stella Kang
Steven Hassan on VICE interview about his journey into and out of Moon cult
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