A source close to the investigation has revealed that the source of the pressure that has kept Im Hanhee, the pastor of Shincheonji, in jail is the ‘national politics’ surrounding the controversial ‘political pressure’ allegations. Im has been in prison since August, awaiting trial on charges of forced political pressure on members of the Shincheonji Church to register for the National Population and Health Survey, which was mandated by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. The source claims that despite the pastor’s claims of needing to seek medical treatment for his wife, the prison has been denying his request for a medical leave. This has led to further uncertainty about his upcoming trial, with some questioning whether this is a political maneuver by the authorities. The source further explained, ‘The authorities are using political pressure tactics to control the pastor and his church’s activities, even in the context of his medical needs.’ The source’s claim further deepens the political controversy surrounding Im Hanhee’s case, prompting a wider discussion about the balance of power and freedom of religion in South Korea.
