Freedom of religion is a fundamental right guaranteed by the constitution. The state generally does not intervene in individuals' beliefs or doctrines. However, when that freedom is used as a means to inflict organized harm on others, the state must no longer remain a bystander. Religion should not serve as a shield for wrongdoing.
The power of religion is immense. Many individuals are willing to risk their lives for their beliefs. When used for noble purposes, religion can unite communities and assist those in need, playing a positive role in society. However, when it is exploited for the personal gain of specific individuals or groups, it can cause significant harm to the state and society. Therefore, with freedom of religion comes a heavy social responsibility.
Recent incidents in Japan and South Korea illustrate the problems that arise when religious organizations neglect this responsibility. The Supreme Court of Japan recently upheld a dissolution order against the Unification Church, also known as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification. The unanimous decision by all four judges was based on evidence that the church had systematically coerced over 1,500 individuals into making large donations, resulting in financial damages amounting to 20.4 billion yen (approximately $194.8 million) from 1973 to 2022.
The church argued that the dissolution order infringed upon religious freedom and the right to assemble. However, the Supreme Court was firm, stating that the order does not prohibit individual religious practices and that revoking the church's legal status is a necessary measure to protect victims and uphold the public interest. The court made it clear that while religious freedom is respected, illegal acts committed in the name of religion cannot be protected.
A similar controversy is unfolding in South Korea. Lee Man-hee, the leader of the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, has been arrested on charges of systematically enrolling over 50,000 followers into the ruling People Power Party. While a final verdict on his guilt or innocence will be determined through the legal process, if the allegations of coercive enrollment are true, it would constitute an act beyond the scope of religious activity. Mobilizing followers to join a specific political party for the church's benefit poses a threat to the constitutional principle of separation of church and state and the democratic order.
Moreover, the controversy surrounding Shincheonji extends beyond the current allegations of collusion with politics. There have been ongoing claims of material and psychological harm caused by the church's deceptive evangelism and proselytizing practices, leading to family breakdowns, severed relationships, and financial losses. Some individuals have even formed organizations to address these issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the church was linked to a significant outbreak that severely impacted national health measures. In fact, these issues are not limited to Shincheonji; numerous cults and similar religious groups have proliferated, causing social conflict and harm under the guise of 'freedom of religion.'
The problem lies in the state's excessive leniency towards these phenomena. The government has been concerned about potential accusations of religious persecution, while politicians have been hesitant to confront these groups for fear of losing their votes. As a result, the suffering of victims has often been neglected for years, sometimes even decades. This context explains why President Lee Jae-myung met with major religious leaders earlier this year to discuss the harms of cults and heretical religions and explore response measures.
The state must prioritize the protection of its citizens over specific religious organizations. While freedom of religion is a precious right guaranteed by the constitution, it cannot justify illegal activities or harm to others. Freedom of religion is the freedom to believe, not the freedom to harm. As long as religion remains within the bounds of the law, the state should protect that freedom; however, when it crosses the line, the state must hold those responsible accountable with utmost rigor. This is the true path to safeguarding religious freedom and fulfilling the state's duty to protect its citizens.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.