The pre-trial detention of a 95-year-old religious leader in South Korea has been brought before the United Nations Human Rights Council, with a civil society group alleging violations of international human rights law and raising urgent concerns about his health.
On September 18, 2026, CAP Freedom of Conscience delivered an oral statement during the General Debate under Item 3 of the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council, which is devoted to the promotion and protection of all human rights. The statement highlighted the case of Chairman Lee Man-hee, the founder and leader of Shincheonji Church of Jesus and a Korean War veteran.
Lee is currently being held in pre-trial detention at the Seoul Detention Center in the Republic of Korea on nonviolent charges. CAP Freedom of Conscience expressed serious concern over the conditions of his detention and what it describes as a politically motivated and discriminatory investigation targeting a religious minority.
Despite having a fixed residence and posing no flight risk, Lee was held in cells without air conditioning during Seoul’s most severe heatwave, according to the statement. This situation, the group said, raises grave concerns about the health and well-being of the 95-year-old detainee.
The organization argued that such treatment runs counter to the Republic of Korea’s international obligations. It cited Article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which requires detention to be necessary and proportionate; Article 10, which guarantees humane treatment; the Nelson Mandela Rules, which entitle detainees to healthcare equivalent to that available in the community; and the Tokyo Rules, which make pre-trial detention a measure of last resort.
Additionally, CAP Freedom of Conscience pointed to Article 18 of the ICCPR, which protects freedom of religion or belief—a fundamental right that the group believes has been violated in this case.
The group urged the Human Rights Council to call on the Republic of Korea to honor its treaty obligations by offering alternatives to detention, allowing an independent medical assessment, and ensuring a fair and impartial trial.
The case underscores growing international scrutiny of South Korea’s treatment of religious minorities and the use of pre-trial detention for elderly, nonviolent defendants. It also raises questions about whether domestic legal practices align with global human rights standards, particularly regarding the rights of older persons and the principle that detention should be a last resort. As the UN Human Rights Council continues its 63rd session, the statement adds pressure on South Korea to review its handling of the case and to uphold its commitments under international law.
