Why It's So Hard to Leave a South Korean Fringe Church

Experts estimate there are 2 million South Koreans who are followers of fringe churches, but the exact figures are unknown. Shincheonji has allegedly become one of the most dominant fringe christian groups in recent years. Currently, it is estimated that there are over 250,000 Shincheonji Church followers within South Korea and internationally.
Former members of Shincheonji speak with VICE World News and tell us why it’s so difficult to leave the church.
Click here to SUBSCRIBE to VICE Asia: bit.ly/2LhqAR9
Connect with VICE Asia:
Check out our full video catalog: bit.ly/2P3Y0pv
Videos, daily editorial and more: vice.com/en_asia
More videos from the VICE network: viceasia/videos/
Like VICE Asia on Facebook: viceasia
Follow VICE Asia on Twitter: / viceasia
Follow us on Instagram: / viceasia

[@banannie7687]

OMG I lived in SK for 1 year. While I was there, I met a group of what seemed like very nice Christians. I was alone in a foreign country so I was grateful that they took me under their wing. They took me to dinners, nature walks and white water rafting with lots of friendships gatherings. Then, slowly in time, they brain washed me to believe in their ideology. Whenever I tried to escape, they stalked me. I was only truly free when my plane lifted off out ICN. I would love to share my story. I might make a video. They never identified themselves SHincheonji, but once, they gave me a bar of soap and when I turned it over it said "shincheonji" on the bottom.

[@banannie7687]

​@@pavlamariebernadettax6789 ok i will. Thank you, I don't know what to believe any more, sometimes I think they are right and that when the day of Judgment comes if I do not repent I will go up in flames of destruction. I wake up with panic attacks and am afraid to go to sleep. I want to be free but I also need salvation.

[@swatichauhan7912]

@@banannie7687 don't worry about god Being angry at you .. no god wants it's believers to be in fear .. sleep freely without any burden on your heart . Even if you do not follow any cult if you have a longing for god you can establish your own connection .. don't worry ... Don't stay in fear... Ok .. nothing bad will happen to you .. you don't need no salvation or anything like that . Love freely. I repeat don't worry ..

[@banannie7687]

@@swatichauhan7912 thanks swati, i never heard that before. some of what youre saying is new for me. thank you friend

[@swatichauhan7912]

@@banannie7687 my pleasure ... Most people put their own thoughts and beliefs into what they tell you ... Trying to corner you with imaginary guilt so that you can't leave them ..the first red flag for a fake made up cult .. they will always try to put fear inside you and to blindly follow the fake books .. in South Korea a mentally unstable man started a cult and brain washed them to eat his poop if they believe that particular cult .. so many people even ate his poop they were so brain washed. One women cane forward as a witness of it ..her brother concelled her to get out of it apparently she said she still sometimes feels like she did the wrong thing and how she would be punished for what she did. That's how much these fake cult people can brain wash other people. No god would ever want it's followers to fear .

[@rezaadara7866]

Is it true that they will suit their facade depending on the target? For instance, they would pretend to be a group of students for a lonely student or a nice sunbae for a worker

[@ICTabitha]

Can we acknowledge how amazing her parents were for being determined, unfortunately not everyone is so lucky, if you don’t have family this cult could easily become your only family.

[@nanjo5652]

Yes only love and support from family and friend can set up free

[@yoface938]

In asian, middle eastern, and south european cultures the child is seen more as an extension of the self and not a wholly independent entity. Although some in the west could say they treat them somewhat more as possessions but there are a lot of benefits for all parties involved especially in times of emergency.

[@mugget6848]

“Beware of false prophets” God wasn’t joking when he told Matthew.

[@rakufin]

You mean all of them?

[@NothingMatter951]

@@rakufin no, just mohammad is the fakest one and created devil cult islam

[@Gyarukittenz]

@@NothingMatter951 so you want people to respect your religion but you do this? dont disrespect other religions if you want others respect yourself

[@santosbond281]

Did Matthew even exist?

[@seongminpark7513]

what if God was the false prophet

[@anhachaudhry4218]

this reminds me of the kdrama “save me”, precisely about a cult and how they trap a vulnerable family. i had no idea that it was a real issue in korea while watching it until now, and i would definitely recognize it.

[@mehrnooshmontenegro5220]

Isn't this the real story about kdramas Save me?

[@msl1689]

It's not as dramatic or obvious as in 'Save Me' so you actually have to be a lot more careful with real life cults. A lot of them can seem very innocent and well-intended.

[@heeseun]

some of them are really scary tbh. i have had friends who were stalked or guilt tripped into giving money.

[@fauziahmohddinmohddin7988]

Religion handled by common people who had no knowledge of religion is sickening.. they will make you their slaves .. dry up your savings and finally lock you in depression .

[@Musiknird]

Korea has the most cults in the world sadly.

[@curromedel]

It happened to my once living in Seoul that a girl approached me while grocery shopping and convinced me to go with her to a ''cultural center'' where they were performing a ''special activity for foreigners'' (obviously it was all lies but me being a naive foreign student in a foreign country agreed). It ended up to be a cult center and I was really scared for a second since I did not know how to get out of that place. They made me perfom some kind of ritual and fill some papers with my family's information (of course I faked all the info). Then they asked for money but I refused and asked to leave, eventually they let me (they got a little bit aggresive not gonna lie). A couple of days after, a guy ran to me in the subway station near my university and talked to me in my mother tonge (how would he know I was Spanish?). He looked too suspicious. I freaked out and ran. You guys!!! if you are visiting SK be careful, specially if someone you dont know comes to you and start talking to you out of nowhere. I lived in SK and believe me, nobody talks to strangers like that at all. I've heard extreme cases where they pretend to be you friend for a long time and then introduce you to this cult... Stay safe!!!

[@user-vc8ll3vi8k]

Omg the same happened to me and my friend. We were around Insadong area when we got approached by two girls saying the same thing you described. My friend was easily convinced and wanted to go with them but I resisted because I knew it was 100% something shady (I was a overseas living korean and didn’t look like the typical korean girl, so they probably thought I was just another foreigner as well). To this day I’m so glad that we didn’t go with them and I don’t want to think about what could have happened to my friend if I wasn’t there.

[@soominssi7353]

It's sooo important to spread awareness!! Because I visited Korea when I just turned 21. I had heard about cult recruiters (thankfully) and was approached in Hongdae 3 times on the first day. This was a huge culture shock because I thought "what if this happens every day??" But thankfully it happened only a few times because at some point you can almost pick them out of a crowd and I would give them mean stares. In my area they were often two students who stick together and offer a "Korean cultural ritual experience" so they can teach you about the Korean culture. It was actually hard to shake them off sometimes because they're so pushy. But just keep walking. They will sometimes try to catch your attention by calling after you a few times, but don't turn around. My guesthouse owner also told me to just make a big scene, for example start angrily shouting at them, if they don't leave you alone. According to her they hate it when the attention of a lot of people goes to them. She also said that Korean strangers will not be that nice out of nowhere, if it happens, it's fishy. Stay safe people, and never follow random people to another place!

[@Moodboard39]

😂😂😂😂 it's obvious your name dude lol I'm Hispanic as well. And yes, Koreans do speak Spanish lol 🤣 but you could've been Portuguese.

[@curromedel]

@@Moodboard39 but they didnt know my name lol

[@michelleykatt]

This same exact thing happened to me too! I was approached by a guy and girl about 2 years younger then me. I was 22 at the time. It didn’t seem suspicious to me. It seemed like they’re a Ted to make foreigner friends. Did they make you wear hanbok and bow down to something? They told me they were teaching me how me about their culture. Did I accidentally pray to another deity without knowing??? Should I be worried? It was years ago. But it still worries me. I was so naive.

[@carmsy2730]

It's not about God.. it's all about money and control.

[@wasabisazzdafirst]

exactly!!

[@gowdsake7103]

THAT is religion well done

[@arlynnecumberbatch1056]

@@gowdsake7103 me when i asked my dad why the church is handing us their basket sticks and he told me to "shut up and drop this here" I was 8 that time. *we were poor that time.* so basically we got scammed.

[@o.eax07]

@@arlynnecumberbatch1056 i'm so sorry-

[@davidcheong1]

All hail the righty rights!

[@m.sparks4394]

There a mountain difference between religion and Relationship with God.

[@____9546]

One of the absolute law given in Quran is “no compulsion in religion”

[@Moodboard39]

@@____9546 than it was abrogated to kill those who don't believe in Islam.. so who you fooling ?

[@Antisocialpessimist]

@@Moodboard39 christians have killed non christians for centuries crusades?

[@lilygirllisa]

@@Antisocialpessimist Christian parents also treat their non-christians children terribly my parents are kicking me out for being atheist

[@ThePlug.]

Agreed

[@francheska93]

For anyone who is interested, there's an amazing korean drama called Save Me, it's about a girl and her family who get trapped in a cult. Recommend it 100%

[@GeorgeMartinus]

I watched both seasons and they are great!

[@francheska93]

@@LyzaLawal it had me at the edge of my seat the WHOLE time 😳✋

[@francheska93]

@@GeorgeMartinus where did you find the second season, and is it worth it?? I read some stuff about it but it never interested me enough to watch it, wonder if I should give it a chance

[@GeorgeMartinus]

@@francheska93 Google is your friend. The 2nd season has different atmosphere. It could be boring at earlier episodes, but gets better at around episode 5 and so on. Don't know why the 2nd season doesn't get more attention than the 1st one. It's actually a great one.

[@Sessu108s]

@@GeorgeMartinus there's a second season of Save Me ???

[@humanmuscleconnoisseur]

Anyone who’s watched the Save Me kdrama is on their toes for this one

[@MP-pw1yo]

Just finished it last night . Can't believe it's actually real life

[@GeorgeMartinus]

I watched both seasons and they are great!

[@tyum1339]

On episode 11 right now

[@sakshi_xviii]

Omg yasss

[@jjulishere]

What makes me scared is in Save Me the cult is only small "church" in the middle of forest in small village with corrupt government, but SCJ is far bigger from Gooseonwon, like it is almost in the whole Korea and even has branches overseas.

[@YoBen100]

It is a bad day when a cult recruiter accidentally recruits a cult recovery counselor in the street.

[@silverblue73]

It's funny how the counselor is just part of the mother cult from which this one spawned, THERE IS NO ESCAPE

[@kdebora6040]

@@silverblue73 what do YOU mean? Isn’t he only a basic christian? I do not live in Korea, that s Why I am asking

[@silverblue73]

@@kdebora6040 That's exactly what I mean, a vanilla Christian is still brainwashed, but not as weird to us since they took over the world a long time ago and we've grown up with it as a "normal" thing

[@Fmvhere]

@@silverblue73 no Jesus is Real

[@vio3366]

@@silverblue73 Protestant Christians are not a cult!

[@Samuel-pt1zx]

I lived in SK for 7 years, and I can say for sure that they are everywhere. there were often people who would approach me for bible talks on the road, even within university campus, some claiming that they were phd students from my department. i didn't know what churches they were from, so i couldnt say for sure that they belonged to this Shincheonji, but one thing was for sure was their persistence in getting me to listen was unnatural. Even after I outright rejected them, or pretended that I couldn't speak Korean, they would keep following me along the way, sometimes even until I entered my dormitory compounds. There was even a Korean who approached me when we got to know each other through a class. At first, he would keep asking me if I was interested in joining him and his friends for football sessions, but I said no, since I don't like sports. But he was persistent, so once, I finally gave in when he asked me along to join them for a hiking session. After that hike, we stayed in contact quite often, but then things started to turn 'church-way' when he started taking me to his church, having bible study sessions, and even brought me to visit their church's 'holy ground'. Eventually, I somehow managed to stop contacting them, and they stopped bothering me when they saw how I lacked passion. Until now, I'm still not sure if they were part of a cult, but the thought of it has constantly brought chills down my back. I also had multiple friends who joined a church in campus that taught them weird teachings, and our thoughts began to differ so much that we stopped becoming friends as well. All these unpleasant experiences with religious activities has left me pretty averse toward the concept of 'religion' itself (my own opinion, no offense intended), but honestly, i really do hope that more videos like this are released and shown to the public to raise awareness. stop more people from becoming victims to these terrible organizations. Thank you so much for creating content like this.

[@ponyjumperr]

fellow student in korea here and i have a similar story from 2 years back. friend introduced me to her friend, and we decided to get together for coffee and korean history lessons, taught by the friend. i noticed each lesson got more religous-y day after day, and when i called her out on it and told her i wasn't meeting anymore she told me that wasnt true, to meet her once more, etc etc. sooo annoying and literally cant trust anyone

[@jillyjollyjelly]

Those sound really scary

[@squiggleworks9]

Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. James 1:27

[@joiceraiana]

If Brazilian evangelical preaching on the streets scares me I can't imagine how bad would be in SK, there's I lot of people in the comments saying how insistent, aggressive and invasive those cultists are. What's wrong with those people?

[@azjargalbyamba9654]

I had a same experience too. It's so annoying

[@Mihawk1848]

Basically i avoid any religion that has a need to recruit followers.

[@preethanadig6252]

@@falsch4761 tbh. there are few hindu gurus also who try to lure in people esp foreigners into their ashrams as well for funds etc. But I agree that one cannot simply convert to hinduism...you can convert into islam, christanity but you need to be born hindu to be called a hindu. there is no conversion process in hinduism. also hinduism is a lifestyle..there is no rule as such like you have to visit temples or chant mantras or follow rituals to be a hindu.

[@6idle4ever49]

@@falsch4761 theres no "recruit" nor "forced" nor shlt like that in real christianity llol get ur fact straight

[@herbertant4096]

@@falsch4761 chriatianity recruiting? Christianity is on decline bruh, only Islam is recruiting

[@herbertant4096]

@@falsch4761 forreal? What kind of christianity?

[@jackstarsky3268]

@@preethanadig6252 i dont know where you guys are from, but you make hinduism and buddhism sound as innocent as a child. As someone who lives in a hindu country i've seen its evil and shed tears for people who think they are doing the right thing by following these gurus/monks/swami etc. DO you know caste system? Its a system of castes that makes certain people higher than other. the family of gurus/brahmin being the highest. If by mistake a lower caste person touches higher caste person, the person is put to death. And witch doctors often round up the villagers to burn a woman alive of lower caste. The women are mostly widow, or forsaken. And to add to her misery they blame her for the cause of disease in the village and burn her thanking their stone idols while doing so. Each and every festival that hinduism brings poor people have to suffer cause they cant afford the entertainment. Its a religion of the rich while the poor or cast away and drink their own tears. And in buddhist family the second child is given to the monastery just after birth or at later age. The childs choice is rejected, he has to go to the monastery and live life as a monk. And when the monk gets old they have to go to the mountains and dig their own graves and wait for death. If you see lots of holes in mountain in buddhist villages thats the story behind it. if you are just gonna scratch the surface and say this group is good then you are the best candidate to be decieved. Dig deeper, make research, learn then you will see which is the right thing.

[@alexhongcycling389]

My friend, a devoted Christian, a top student attending SKY, who despised fringe religions, ended up in Shincheonji. It was more shocking to later learn that she tried to subsume my friends as well. Her parents have lost contact of her and we can only imagine what she's upto. What's more disturbing is that besides a small group of my friends, pretty much everyone around her doesn't know that she is deeply into Shincheonji..

[@Moodboard39]

fucked up

[@quynhchipham9607]

There go her bright future

[@giantpinkmonster9644]

As a foreigner living in S.Korea, I've experienced this more in rural areas compared to Seoul. Usually, Koreans don't approach strangers or try to 'make friends with strangers. And 'church people' aggressively approach and follow you, with attempts to introduce their ideology. They even speak many languages, so it's not easy to pretend you don't speak Korean. The rule of thumb is to avoid any strangers smiling and approaching you.

[@LyssieLysse]

I live in the U.S. and I wish there was counseling dealing with people who just got out of cults. I’d left a cult in 2019 and I did go to therapy, but they didn’t believe what I’d gone through and diagnosed me with complex anxiety and depression instead (which I did have after leaving the cult). It helped some, but I found a YTer who had gone through what I’d went through and she helped a lot and I was able to counsel myself. I’m still weary of people, but my trust is back for the most part whereas it completely was gone in 2019 and 2020. I’m still upset that I wasted 4 years of my life believing what I thought was the “truth” only to be shunned when I found everything said was a lie. However, I’m at a better place in my life now and I’m happy.

[@blueorchid9455]

im so happy you were able to recover, these type of places get to people who are at their lowest. being strong seems to be the only way to combat this, and that means being happy, happy for yourself. I'm sorry people weren't there for you when you need it, but i hope you only have better days :)

[@misschrystaldiamond]

I suspect the USA will need a lot of these counselors .... a lot of people are leaving that QAnon group and feel they need mental and emotional healing. I dont know much on the topic but im sure leaving a group u had deep faith in must be difficult

[@leelandluver]

😔❤️

[@LyssieLysse]

@@misschrystaldiamond Thanks. I still have my days where I get a bit sad, but the good days outweigh them. I still don’t understand why a group of people use God as a pawn in their mind controlling. It’s not right.

[@LyssieLysse]

@@blueorchid9455 Thank you! I still have my moments of sadness, but I feel lighter and much better than when I was with those people. You’re right about them feeding off of the darkness because that’s where I was in my life during that time.

[@msl1689]

They approached me when I was in Melbourne, Australia. I didn't know at the time, I just thought they were a bible study group. They come off as really nice people but the more you get to know their teachings, it gets weirder and more toxic, teaching you that everyone who is not part of the group are against you. It's you against everyone else. And they make it seem like they are the chosen ones 'in the know' and everyone else are still blind, left in the dark and must be 'saved' from all other mainstream churches (i.e. 'false prophets'). Be careful of anyone who approaches you and invites you to a bible study, they will straight up deny that they are part of any specific denomination much less part of Shincheonji. If they tell you they've never heard of Shincheonji or that they are often mistaken for Shincheonji because their teachings have been copied and distorted, don't believe them. They ARE Shincheonji.

[@potatopotato9308]

Almost all cults are like this. I approached by a cult in the beginning of my college year claiming they are officials from the university. They kept coming to my residence even uninvited. They always target lonely students and would come in group to brainwash you.

[@kaussiesvt7302]

They've also gone online. Its scary to see that the bible study had lured like 70/80 students/ppl. Be careful guys.

[@msl1689]

@@kaussiesvt7302 Kinda ironic that they've gone online since I remember how I was always told by them not to look up any Christian teachings online. They said it's because there are a lot of false teachings online (which is true). In hindsight though, I think they were just trying to keep me from finding out about their cult-like status. Luckily, I'm not the type to be blindly obedient and that's how I found out that their teachings are actually from Shincheonji! ;)

[@kaussiesvt7302]

@@msl1689 thats what they still say, and they say dont tell anyone your doing this because... (and tells a full blown story of a an incident) but fortunately i told someone because it felt off for a long time.

[@biggiedii4889]

I'm in Sydney and I attended SCJ for a few months. Worst experience of my life.

[@lawrencebautista1]

Is this the church that caused the first spike of Covid-19 in Korea last year?

[@ILovePlayingZeldaGamesOnSwitch]

Yes. The Daegu branch

[@flagel552]

my church did a workshop where the speaker explained the details behind cults, heresies etc. and shincheonji was one of the cults talked about in detail. i learnt a lot about their recruitment process and their system of organization, it really is scary once you learn more about them. i cant imagine how trapped and hopeless the people who are entangled with them must feel

[@giovinis]

fuck an cult saying things from other cult this fucking new world must be an fucking bad joke

[@selectiveroots]

yes same with my church. cult study and other fake christian groups should be studied in more biblically based churches and made known. too many people are getting hurt.

[@danix4883]

@@selectiveroots Yup my church pastor also speaks about these fringe churches and cults, how to identify them and what to do if they approach you

[@maeduss]

@@selectiverootsinteresting and rly concerning!! I’ll be talking to the young group’s leader about it!!

[@regularwhatever4986]

But I’m in new heaven and new earth, and I don’t feel trapped or hopeless at all. All the online information regarding Shincheonji church are misleading false statements. I’ve never been so free and well informed about the Bible very clearly according to scriptures and not mans interpretations or doctrines

[@sayrah6716]

as someone who's been living in SK for the past three years.... yeah, cults are scary. the whole Shincheonji thing started off the pandemic here. basically, a member had been in China and lied when returning to Korea about where she'd been. she started showing symptoms but didn't get tested or self-isolate, and continued to attend church meetings. according to Korean media, these meetings aren't voluntary: miss three and you're kicked out. plus, they sit on the floor in very close proximity, which is a literal breeding ground for COVID cases. we went from maybe 5 cases to over 1,000 in a few days, and members were refusing to self-isolate or get tested. eventually the members who did so were fined. it was the source of such a massive cluster infection, all because the members were terrified of being kicked out. definitely a cult.

[@fannynoriega8772]

also none of these people wore masks at said meetings i believe

[@sayrah6716]

@@fannynoriega8772 that wouldn't surprise me, at that point there wasn't a full mask mandate yet

[@Moodboard39]

I heard

[@romeogoesoverseas]

You can have a relationship with God without joining any group. At least that's what I think.

[@gowdsake7103]

You just make up your own shit then ?

[@hassanmohamud3096]

Not in Christianity

[@shikhasinha8143]

It is there in Sanatan Dharma

[@aya123444]

True.

[@remigal899]

@@hassanmohamud3096 yes you can

[@mnkbat1198]

There is a huge difference between religion and Christ Jesus. It's sad that most Pastors these days preach more religion and church doctrine instead of relationship with God

[@ngrobert5054]

Cult leader

[@adelynorata3766]

These leader are hurting everyone.

[@pilipusezra5957]

Yes indeed. Our Lord God Jesus Christ teaches about love - true love where you put others' best interests above yourself. Sacrifice, compassion, and sincerity is His characteristics among other virtues like modesty and humbleness; none which these sheep-clothed cults teach their people. God bless you!

[@aniyaalexander5441]

@@pilipusezra5957 amen

[@underneathmoonlight1352]

@ZebraZ islam n hindu...NOPE

[@denmarksux9951]

My friend and I were walking back from class once and we met one of these cults. We while walking back saw this group having a stand and they approached us. They said they were a Korean cultural club and they wanted us to come to their next meeting where they will have Korean food, movies, games, etc. Neither my friend nor I were Korean (we both were Indian- American). We made some light conversations talking about college life in general and different hobbies. We both were eager to socialize because it was our first year at university and we wanted to make friends. They revealed they were a Christian-oriented culture club but they were accepting of all religions. They were insistent for us to come to their meeting, which was in an apartment building off campus (first red flag). We said we would come. They also said the name of their club and I realized they were a cult. They are called the Unification Church, or Moonies for short. Different cult, but the same shit. That's when I realized we had to get away, so we made some lame excuse and I explained to my friend what the situation was. Had I not watched some documentary on the moonies, we might have gotten entrapped. Although I doubt we would have been converted. My friend is a devout Muslim and I am Hindu, and we aren't the type to change religions easily.

[@aika7974]

These kind of people were also became really persistent in Japan! Just be carefull when someone try to approach you in a overwhelmed kind (fake positivity). Usually they targeting overseas student or someone who were a little bit lonely

[@mariedelights6132]

Reading your comment, I suddenly remembered when I was studying in Melbourne, Australia back in end of 1999-early 2000s. I was approached by a middle aged Asian guy near a train station, he spoke english, has Chinese/Korean looks and talked about religions. Came into conclusion, he then asked me & my friends at that time about our religions, then we replied we’re Christians and he replied he also a Christian. But then he said something astonishing that all religions are the same & mentioned about all universal religion and we worship the same one God. When he finished saying that, we realised he was a different type of thing and we’re not the same like him. I just realised right now, what my friends and I encountered during that time it might be a cult that lured international students from all background & religions.

[@sania3959]

What actually is their ideology is?? What do they teach their followers? And why do they do that??

[@ahagotcha]

I am laughing so hard to see the friend is a devout Muslim and you a Hindu. They choose the worst group to convert especially when in Hinduism there are millions gods to have faith. Man i hope you and your friends doing okay

[@TheOGPokemonGirl]

I'm from Australia, and I was once approached by two young women in a shopping center who asked if I wanted to come and see their university lecture about Christianity. They said that they needed 200 people to come and watch it so that they could have people answer a survey about the content of the lecture. All they had with them were clipboards, and gave no proof or identification as to which university they were from, and didn't even say where the lecture would be held. Their English also wasn't the best, so it was a bit hard to decipher the specifics of the 'lecture.' It seemed really strange to see these women going around approaching people in a major shopping center complex, but I just assumed they were doing fundraising or something so I politely declined and moved on. It wasn't until this year when I read an article about the rise of Shincheonji members in Australia approaching young people (mostly women), and asking them to attend a religious information session, that I realized those women had tried to recruit me. It was so eerie reading this article and the way in which these young people were being recruited, it was so similar to what had happened to me. I was so glad that I hadn't agreed to go to their 'lecture.' I'm normally not good at saying no, but something about these two just didn't feel right. Always trust you gut instinct when it tells you something isn't right.

[@andrewsimmons9893]

wow, my old church :o Edit: while they don't encourage you to neglect your life, leaders use a lot of words (Bible or otherwise) to make you think that Shincheonji is number one priority. They would also make you feel guilty for not doing your best/enough. They would also talk about how the devil will use the world (careers, studies, leisures) and people, including your family/friends, to pull you away from the word. For example, if you have a college test coming up or a family event? "What's more important, hearing God's word or studying for your test/your family/other life priorities?" You would choose attending a Shincheonji activity. Eventually, leaders don't even need to say anything (although they will constantly remind you regardless), you will continue to choose Shincheonji even if you feel conflicted inside, because it's the "right" thing to do. If you become a leader, you will do the same thing to lower level members. Instead of leading a balanced life, you're encouraged to lead a Shincheonji (God)-centered life. It's an extremely powerful grasp, if the believers really think Heaven and eternal life awaits at the end of all their struggles.

[@pavlamariebernadettax6789]

Andrew, congratulations for your freedom now! Freedom from manipulation like that... Wish you the best!

[@renocottee2397]

100% true sir!!!

[@regularwhatever4986]

But Andrew they were right.

[@antongavutti4376]

We all eat LIES When our hearts are HUNGRY

[@eriklee9462]

yeah but you need money to eat lie$

[@chinggiskhuree5748]

That makes sense!

[@vivliforia2262]

Why eat LIES? LAYS is better.

[@chinggiskhuree5748]

@@vivliforia2262 I hope you are referring to potato chips. 😲 😂

[@vivliforia2262]

@@chinggiskhuree5748 yummy 😋

[@kevinliu2755]

This is true, my ex-girlfriend who is a Korean is still in Shincheonji. She literally left her jobs, friends, family, and of course, me also for her church. I didn't even realize she was in a cult until one of her friends told me. What my ex-girlfriend responded was the same " don't believe the internet" " don't believe what the reports say" " don't believe we are a cult". She's a core member in Shincheonji now. Shincheonji teaches its followers what to say, what to think, and what to do, they control your life with a highly organized system. In that system, it can take years to train a person into a deeply brainwashed core member.

[@ssamhangugeo4824]

I am so sorry you went through this. Hopefully she can get out of it soon.

[@zarazhala7331]

I'm so sorry to ask, but actually what are they aiming for? I mean it seems like she left everything for that which means she doesn't have anything anymore for herself, then how does it benefit the organization? This is probably bcs of my lack of reading, but I saw people was demanded for money mostly.

[@kevinliu2755]

@@zarazhala7331 Shincheonji is smart, they define their " human resources", which means followers with different social statuses have different " missions". My ex is just from a middle-class family. She then started a part-time job in a local cafe, which allowed her to dedicate more time to the church. As I know, she gave 10 to 30% of her income to Shincheonji every month. After she became a core member, she spent almost 70% of her time in the church, the part-time job was just to cover her daily expense. Btw, unfortunately, Shincheonji are preaching over the world now, not just Korea, but also China, the US, EU, and so on. They also target developing countries for charity (recruitment).

[@zarazhala7331]

@@kevinliu2755 I see. Thank you for explaining!

[@ginatorres9771]

Wow this is really scary

[@pointit7045]

Yikes 😬 this reminds me of my aunts stories when she would come and visit us during the holidays when she used to work in taiwan. She was approached by a group of middle aged ladies in a cafe in new taipei, they thought that she was lonely and wanted her to join them but she refused since she was there to finish something in her laptop but they were relentless on her joining them, but my aunt keeps saying that she was working on her laptop until they leave and went to pester someone. She only later found out when she told the story on her coworkers that those people belong in a cult based on Buddhism of some sort. I'm not saying that Buddhism is bad but all I'm saying is that not only Christianity have cults but all religion have one, and yes even in atheist have some (some new age things and 'science based' once), so all of you, be careful out there, they really targeted the lonely and vulnerable and my aunt is lucky that she already have friends and good coworkers in taiwan or else she might have joined them.

[@carpaccio45]

This particular incident reminds me of a cult called Falun Gong. This is actually a new age cult that originated from China but was cracked down by the Chinese Government. Now they are operating outside China especially in the USA or Taiwan.

[@rooowtwx]

I was in Daegu and while walking around the commercial area near campus, young women would approach with folders and claim that she's trying to "practise for her presentation" and ask if she could practise presenting. Then she'd go into explaining that she's in theology before you realise it's some f-ed up shit when she mentions "Mother God". They'd demand to have my phone number. When I refused to give my number, she insisted to meet at the same spot the next day and claimed that she will wait until I showed up. I told her I won't be able to meet. But it doesn't end there... slightly earlier before that, I was in the student's international lounge on campus where they would have students who set up "clubs/student associations" within the uni and they'd just randomly approach international students in the lounge and invite them to activities/events. Later, they'd invite you to dinner but when I said "Oh, can i bring some friends with me" (because I don't feel comfortable eating with a complete stranger all alone), they'd insist to have me meet with them alone. I never went either. Can I just point out though? These are all mostly very nice people who mostly treated people with kindness genuinely. Like, if you could separate the possibility of being asked to one of their religious meetings, they would still be very nice to you... and that is precisely what makes international students a good target because they're mostly young people thousands and miles away from home, with no family, very few friends and sometimes desperate to make local friends. And I must point out that this is not the only cult out there; so many of them have "infiltrated" campuses (so to speak) through "Christian clubs" and they often have 1-to-1 "meetings" with students. If there is an insistence on meeting you and disallowing your friend to join, that is also likely a sign that there's something fishy. But most of the time, it's easiest to tell from the teachings and how much it deviates from mainstream Christianity. (I have also heard that for foreigners, they'd confiscate your passport so you can't go anywhere or leave. Not sure how true that is though) Personally, there is also some slight problem in the whole name calling thing (unless it's a well-known cult like Shincheonji) because you can't be sure which one's which (or whether it's just the pot calling the kettle black). S.Korea enjoys a great degree of religious freedom and that can be both a good and bad thing. The downside is all these fringe churches and one can barely tell them apart.

[@ronberi7773]

do you find it weird that pop up churches sprung up in Korea which is not a majority Christian country. there is this Bible prophecy that mentions land in the East from which Korea is one of them. I remember Jesus also said that when comes back for a second time, there will be lots of false Christs that will appear. So if there are many cult churches, there should be the true Christ. or is this a coincidence... i am really curious

[@rooowtwx]

@@ronberi7773 Half of Korea's current population claim to have no religious beliefs while the other half is divided between Christians and Buddhists. There are also around 102 Christian universities in Korea. These schools are perhaps the legacy of Christian missionaries. You can Google "Why S.Korea is distinctively Christian" for more background. I feel that these schools do tend to have more Christian clubs and proselytising is taken rather seriously in school. I even know a woman who opened a food store that was notoriously cheap which attracted all the international students. After visiting some time, she told me that she opened a store near uni because she wanted to preach to students. The extent of my bible knowledge may be slightly limited but I suppose it's not too far fetched to think of Korea as one of the places in Asia in the sense you've spoken about. (There are other more populated Christian Asian countries though; perhaps just not enjoying the same kind of freedom to express their religious beliefs, eg. China). Korea has Shincheonji, Moonies, etc. And, as per knowledge, any of those institutions that preach books or "new bibles" outside of the Old and New Testament fall into the definition of cult/fringe Church.

[@silkytofu2728]

Omg the EXACT same thing happened to me. They wanted to practice their English by asking us to listen to their “presentation” and they were young too like in their early 20s. It was a weird experience and this happened in India

[@ARIANAADEMI]

This happened to me but actually at my university campus in the US! This asian woman came up to me and wanted to interview me and started reading “verses” talking about the Mother of God. Soon as I heard that I got out of there ASAP lol.

[@ronberi7773]

@@rooowtwx when you said "new bibles", Mormons also came to my mind. thanks for responding though.

[@nzlotrfan]

This is timely - I just left my branch of SCJ, this week.

[@soyou4217]

good for you. first week is hard. first month is hard but it gets better as times passes.

[@monmaxwitnaojulgri6032]

It's a hoax confession, you're not Korean and they only target Korean speaking prospects

[@nzlotrfan]

@@monmaxwitnaojulgri6032 absolutely incorrect. SCJ branched out overseas about 7 or 8 years ago. Do some more research before accusing someone else of lying.

[@monmaxwitnaojulgri6032]

@@nzlotrfan well which one is correct of your research, 7 or 8 years have they been branched out to overseas?? And if you had been doing your research so well about them then why you now decide to leave them or join them in the 1st place?? Make up your mind sheesh fool

[@nzlotrfan]

@@monmaxwitnaojulgri6032 this is so inappropriate and just plain unkind.

[@swallowedinthesea11]

My Korean Dad cut ties with his sister. She calls and always says WW3 is happening soon. She even bought a Jeep to prepare for the apocalypse since she said Jeeps can climb mountains with ease. A couple of months later she traded it in for a Mercedes. He had the last straw and said she's the type to join Jim Jones. Pretty sad our family's estranged.

[@Adi_Yoginii]

I thought every Christian is a missionary 😂 well I was really wrong I don't even know this types of religions exist

[@jade4468]

@@Adi_Yoginii There are many different types of christians. you can search up “christian denominations” and you’ll see many pop up with different information. not all are missionaries! lol

[@swallowedinthesea11]

@@robertmoray988 She grew up during the Korean War and didn't have much education which would had likely helped in making wiser choices.

[@swallowedinthesea11]

@@robertmoray988 No worries, I didn't mean my comment in a negative way :)

[@Moodboard39]

@@robertmoray988 she need help

[@ry.hoshiko5482]

I read some stories and experience in the comments. It all seems to boil down to one thing. They creep in slowly and preyed on your vulnerability without u ever realising in the most normal way possible until you're brainwash and its too late...

[@brttnyt]

I specifically remember being told that [the class] shouldn't be a burden. It seems like the class shouldn't intrude on your life, but it's more your life shouldn't intrude on them.

[@anawkwardsweetpotato4728]

I'm so relieved that God has placed Pastor Jeong in this position to guide people out of the lies of evil, and that these people have been able to keep their relationship with God still. I remember right before the pandemic started, I almost got recruited by a cult member from the World Mission Society Church of God. I have PTSD and struggle to trust other believers because of all the grooming and brainwashing I experienced. Everyone, please hold onto God and watch out for wolves in sheep's clothing. These cults are far reaching, even trickling into mainstream churches and doctrine. If you are a believer, remember that your relationship with God is YOURS, and NO ONE shall take off your crown. If you are not a believer, I pray you have no fear, and that maybe someday you can get to know Jesus personally. Love. ❤

[@tahwsisiht]

You are my kind of person! I found your comment respectful to everyone who has faith or even those who have not find their spiritual path yet. I am suffering from PTSD due to spiritual abuse, but I am certain that it is better to be one with something in my heart that believes, than being convinced that someone has the right to abuse any other human being because his/her religion gives the right to it.

[@vio3366]

I really appreciate your comment! I was never in a cult but I was a Christian growing up, and it was mostly all good until I started to get depressed, all Christian people that surrounded me, even if they had the best intention possible, they treated me so bad and said so many bad things to me that nobody should say to someone going through depression. I started to hate the faith and I stopped believing in Yeshua. Then I realized that the Bible does actually talk quite a bit about depression in a very different way, and it was never in the way the Christian people talked about it, I could actually find comfort in the scripture. Psalm 30:5 "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning." So I also realized that God has nothing to do with how those people treated me. Psalm 118:8 "It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man." The scripture is already telling us that there will be many who will use the name of God in vain. Many who will use His word to control people but God is still the same and it is always better to trust in him!

[@faithduran7030]

This happened to me a little over a year ago. I have been fascinated by the Korean culture and met a friend on an app who was apart of the church. For weeks she would encourage me to join the Bible studies and I finally did. That decision would be the worst mistake of my life. I’m from the states and they had convinced me to move and boy oh boy I really wanted to, I was so persuaded that this was the right teachings of the gospel. I can’t imagine how it must have been for the locals of Korea who found out it was a cult too late. I miss my friend as well, I believe she’s still apart of it. Once I told her I would no longer partake in classes or sign the “book of life”, we’ve never spoken since. It’s sad how things can end so please be aware pf the wolves in sheep’s clothing. God bless you all!

[@danielhaghshanas320]

online friend!

[@rhiko7]

I met a teacher through online community. We do Bible study having one on one session every weekend. She sent me an invitation for an on-line session going to be held on 11th Dec. When I saw SCJ on the pamplet I was skeptical. I faintly remember her saying she belongs to this church, but I can't pin point. What do I do? Should I attend a session and see how things work?

[@faithduran7030]

@@rhiko7 that’s how it starts out, one on one. They lure you in with such glamor. I wouldn’t waste my time. I would ask if she is associated with SCJ just to be sure and flee my friend.

[@faithduran7030]

@@danielhaghshanas320 I’m sorry?

[@rhiko7]

@@faithduran7030 Thanks for the reply. I'm quitting the class!

[@GeorgeMartinus]

Life is about accepting harsh truths, not comforting lies.

[@ibnmianal-buna3176]

As a Muslim, even I acknowledge this. And don’t say I’m living according to “comforting lies” as well. I converted to Islam after studying its key message as well as the life of Prophet Muhammad(SAW). And it just made sense that he was very genuine in his claims. There’s even historical evidence of supernatural occurrences when he received revelations. You can find them on my channel. Come to my playlist about Apostate Prophet and watch the video near the bottom called “Apostate Prophet Exposed Part 3” by Islamic Defense, it’s in that video.

[@GeorgeMartinus]

@@ibnmianal-buna3176 Sorry mate, but I even don't have any interest to see it when your profile pic also telling about 'Iies'. Okay, I don't want to have long debate here because I already Iearn the t ruths about it.

[@ibnmianal-buna3176]

@@GeorgeMartinus So you’ll negatively judge anything I have to say for trying to openly support people being treated harshly for their race in China. Interesting to say the least. Watch that video though. It’s very fascinating. Also what exactly are the truths you came across? I’m curious.

[@GeorgeMartinus]

@@ibnmianal-buna3176 Haha... okay.. just be yourself. I don't have time, nor the interest to convince u at all. You have tons of homeworks to be done.

[@christtv3576]

As a Christian it’s honestly so sad to here about these stories because Jesus came to get rid of religion since the people were so corrupt and that through him you could have a relationship with God and go to heaven. I didn’t believe in Christ until I had a supernatural experience with Christ and he saved my life🙏✝️

[@crownyoun]

The word of God has already said it. Many false prophets/teachers will come to you with sheep clothed , so if you do not study bible, does not know holy spirit and seek the Lord, it's easy for unseen enemies to take u over your whole life..so beware.

[@Syiem1420]

Amen🙏🏻

[@Syiem1420]

Amen🙏🏻

[@gowdsake7103]

Demonstrate the word of god ! how do you come to that conclusion Demonstrate why only your prophets are the true profits !

[@hassanmohamud3096]

*the word of Paul

[@user-ri3rp3kl4d]

@@gowdsake7103 repent sinner

[@minisoda5064]

Really hope that more people gets awareness of their manipulative tactics to identify them. Especially the places out of Korea. I met their group in Singapore, they first started out as a 1 to 1 bible study. At first I had my guards up trying to seek anything fishy about them. It started out really normal, everything they quoted is from the bible, and the people are so friendly. Next they invited me to a study group and make it sound exclusive. It was normal at first, and starts to get weird without even noticing. Been studying 3 times a week. Met friends, but we weren’t allowed to get contacts from classmates. They say that not everyone came to have friends, some just want to study only. I was ok with that, cause we were strangers at first, and i meet my friends 3 times a week anyways. Went on for a few months, then covid hits. SCJ in Korea had affected SCJ in Singapore as well. I received a message one day saying class is cancelled forever, I was shaken and confused. Received call from the “pastor” asking us don’t contact them anymore. Another day I received a recorded voice call, with a dark voice saying this is shincheonji church.... blablabla....., from a teacher whom i know is very bubbly. The whole experience was very creepy. A few days later, my friend found me through mutual connections, and found another classmate while i was shopping. Found recent articles exposing them, I knew it should be from one of us. Even officials investigated on them because of covid. Hear no news after that. Creeps me out that they might be still out there targeting people, very secretive group, good at manipulating, very sincere looking. Their existence is in the grey area, they are not against the law. They look just like normal people, might be just around you or hiding in churches. Update: I just checked again, I think they were arrested last year Nov. www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/members-arrested-singapore-chapter-south-korea-church-13518262

[@SSilverdew]

I’m from SG too and had the exact same experience as you, except i met them in 2016. It’s such an insane experience and my friend and i were left really shaken after the ordeal. I’m so thankful that our authorities arrested them and kicked them out. I really hope none of their group or ideologies continue on in SG.

[@iiHobox3]

It’s scary how real this is because I’ve been stopped multiple times when I studied abroad. Usually they’d be girls asking for directions while I made my way to school and then they’ll try to keep the conversation and not let me go. They’re not forceful but you can tell in their voices that they want more than just directions. It was pretty crazy but it happens a lot. My foreign friend who stayed longer told me about how she made friends with someone who wanted to learn English and they became good friends. She went with the girl on the day trip and she realized something was wrong so she ran away. People scare me. 😔

[@Moodboard39]

Lol creepy people. Can't trust people . I don't give shit how friendly u are . I would analyze you head to toe lol

[@gytan2221]

@@Moodboard39 Same, you can’t trust people these days, even friends

[@hilarymol6607]

I've always been interested in cults and how they operate. Each one seems to have its own unique approach, its own god-head (so to speak), its own rituals. The common thread that binds every one of them together is how they target the most vulnerable to be "recruited". It's heartbreaking, and I applaud those who work to help cult members become former cult members; it's rarely risk-free, and always a little scary. Thank you to those of you who are on the other side, ready to be that soft place to land for people who have been used ultimately for the benefit of someone else.

[@Daewonnni]

Well said

[@sarahalbers5555]

Check out the Church of the Latter Day Saints. Terrifying and very cultish.

[@rosean374]

As a perpetual wily opportunist, I have always wondered if it is possible to pretend to be brainwashed in order to infiltrate and scam such cults. I mean if there is money and other gifts to be siphoned, could I get away with pretending am brainwashed to be a member? just asking?

[@hilarymol6607]

@@sarahalbers5555 I know that first hand. I had a roommate associated with that church, and her sister lived right next door. Not fun.

[@liannaxiao1651]

When I was in Korea a couple of years ago, there would always be groups of people trying to flag you down on the street to talk about joining their organization (almost always religious). Some of them even followed you for up to 20 minutes. It’s scary if you’re there alone and I would take detours to avoid them

[@am32074]

Shouldn't that be illigal in Korea??? Or is it illigal but those people don't care?

[@Meerkat17]

@@am32074 Korea developed so fast economically but their human rights and legal areas lag far behind other developed countries. I watch the Korean news daily. A guy that works at a phone store used confidential registration information to hit on a female customer without any legal punishment. A delivery guy also became a stalker after memorizing the woman's address when she had food delivered.. Another guy broke into a woman's home but didn't go to jail because the woman was not at home and "nothing happened" and "he was drunk at the time and didn't mean any harm to anyone". Attempted crimes are not punished harshly if they're punished at all. Of course the examples I've listed here may be pretty extreme, because Korea definitely is a very safe country. But do you get the picture about how human rights area is lagging behind?

[@wardarahman1757]

I don’t think you’re exaggerating infact I think that’s very scary and eye opening..

[@ZolyoZ]

This happens not only in Korea. I witnessed them Shincheonji in Sydney, Australia. They hold Korean amd English sessions to recruit Australians. They are everywhere.

[@only_saviorjesus8285]

Shincheonji believes that Man-hee Lee lives forever. Because they believe that Man-hee Lee is the only overcomer in Revelation chapters 2 and 3. And Shincheonji is the religion that believes that those who believe in Lee Man-hee will also live forever. However, Lee Man-hee said that he was arrested while in hospital, and he said, "I am concerned that my life will last until the end of the trial." Why does a person who had eternal life worry about his own life? The overseas Shincheonji believers who will be watching this video do not know this and believe in Shincheonji. Man-hee Lee came out after paying 100 million won on bail. If he is innocent and can live forever, why would he pay money and get out of jail? Please think again. The ending of Shincheonji is hell both in reality and in the afterlife.

[@cuc6410]

I have my loved one into this cult and I am still struggling to help her out of this until now..

[@cherryblossom2578]

Good point. The inconsistencies within Lee Man He’s words and teachings are a good reason to leave. SCJ has also had inconsistencies with their teachings on the beast of the earth and Antipas, for example.

[@cuc6410]

@@cherryblossom2578 I wish those in Germany will see this text because this people called scj are all over here with their deceptions.

[@cherryblossom2578]

@@cuc6410 sorry that you’re grappling with helping your loved one out of SCJ. It’s definitely a difficult task even for ex-members to do. I think you have probably visited the Shincheonji subreddit? There’s ex-members who can provide advice. People also get into specific details when it comes to flaws in SCJ doctrine. Basically, there’s a lot of backed-up reasons to leave discussed there.

[@Ariana-ok9mh]

@CherryBlossom25 I was im this Cult i end this today. They scary me now, they say when i leave i‘m with the satan...

[@michaeljames6817]

It's rumored there are several celebrities and even Kpop idols in this cult.

[@chodic364]

A while ago i saw a picture of Korean actors and idols having a bible study together.I remember seeing Kim Soohyun and Yoona among them.

[@zb2433]

@@chodic364 soohyun?

[@portiao202]

@@chodic364 having a bible study doesn’t qualify it as a cult though many religious people have bible study

[@8002nessa]

@@chodic364 No. Park Bogum, JYP’s wife and a bunch of other celebrities (I can't remember) are known to be in cult. Not Soohyun and Yoona. Having a bible study together doesn’t mean being in a cult.

[@msl1689]

@@chodic364 There's nothing wrong with Bible studies per se. How do you think Christians learn about their own religion?

[@ninjasiren]

Relationship with God (or gods, if you believe in that) not religion, its between you and the one above. Being born from a Bible Baptist family, with a father that teaches science (specifically, Biology and Physics) in high school, while I am also interested in science and technology. And in the years I have been living with Christ, I see that religion is not the key. It really depends on how is your relationship with God. (Agnostic or otherwise) I also see people, when their faith is too unbalanced with your day to day life, it turns into religious radicalism. Take for an instance, Islam (the moderates, and the radicals), moderates tolerates things and balances their faith and their regular life. While radicals go to extreme lengths and extreme mental state that they decide to do something that is bad. That includes all other religions (Abrahamic or otherwise). People are naturally easy to get affected by things (especially things that go against their own beliefs), and people are naturally will find the easier way out of tricky situations. That is why they end up joining cults. Humans are softies mentally, even people whom iron-willed are still soft somehow. If you don't believe on things I have said, or you feel I am a hypocrite, then that's on you and I will take it as constructive criticism. I am just as affected by this video as others whom joined this cult, as I do have some Korean friends that joined this cult and has consulted some of them.

[@wolfhide4488]

The amount of facts your spitting is inspiring.

[@wanderingdaedalus9331]

​@章吉尔莫希特 It can't be stopped. Any faith or religion will always be radical in the eyes of another. They're built that way. At least the dominant ones are. 2 Corinthians 6:14 NIV Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? John 14:6 ESV Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. Quran 60:10 O People who Believe! When Muslim women leave the lands of disbelief and migrate towards you, examine them; Allah knows more about their faith; so if you judge the women to be believers, do not send them back to the disbelievers; neither are they lawful for the disbelievers, nor are the disbelievers lawful for them; and give their disbelieving husbands what they had spent; and there is no sin upon you to marry them if you give them their bridal money; and do not continue the marriage with disbelieving women - and ask for what you had spent, and the disbelievers may ask for what they had spent; this is Allah’s command; He judges between you; and Allah is All Knowing, Wise.

[@yasmino6387]

This type of logic is flawed because how can you a relationship with God without knowing how to worship him correctly? It doesn't make sense to say I believe in God how I want. We worship God in how he wants to be worshiped, not by simply following our desires. There is no such thing as "moderate" islam. Islam is islam. Simple as that. There are people who water down the religion and those who are too extreme in practicing the faith.

[@wanderingdaedalus9331]

@@yasmino6387 And only mortals get to say which is just the right amount of adherence, just within the span of their lifetime as evident in the constant shifting and morphing consensus of scholars and theologians throughout the ages, each generation of believers born into one set of interpretations and withering away with another set of interpretations, always larger in amount than the previous one? That's how you get radicals. And what of those who had lived through the past, a time unlike ours, when the understanding of the scriptures is not as abundant and diverse? Do they not deserve the same opportunity we possess in their already ended and restrained pursuit of the truth? Do they not deserve to have their faith and beliefs challenged the way ours are being challenged today?

[@aya123444]

@@yasmino6387 Most people dont even have the basic of the basic information of the bible even if they read it. I'm jewish but I tell you... praying 5 times a day is NOT the only way to worship God "correctly"

[@amankodimela8499]

damn vice actually hid somebody's face damnn

[@nituraa8147]

About time

[@silverblue73]

they do it all the time

[@kit-nun5476]

@@silverblue73 They do it nowadays after they got someone killed.

[@grassina3]

Honestly, even the "regular" churches in Korea can get pretty bad. Not all of them obviously, but the vitriol many of them spew towards minorities, especially LGBTQ minorities, is so wrong. Then of course there's the issues brought up in this video. Almost every foreigner I know in Korea has a story about being approached or harassed by church members.

[@TheNeeyang]

Yes I’ve been living in Korea for over a year I’ve been approached and I knew the moment the women came to talk to me. My husband on the other hand oblivious af.

[@foldingwishes]

Ain't that the truth. Honestly there is a reason cults became big in Korea. It stems from a lot of the toxic mindsets that were already present in regular churches. Gaslighting is a regular thing. And oh yeah, anti-LGBTQ is HUGE. I got crazy backlash for setting my Facebook Profile to rainbow in support of pride week. It's nuts. Thankfully I've completely cut contact with everyone from that place.

[@jungkooks_microwavephobia]

@@foldingwishes Even those that weren’t hateful? I mean its your life but please reconsider that thats kind of putting people in a box. Sure a lot of koreans are homophobic but still remember that we are all individuals and don’t share the same beliefs as everyone from our country. Like you can live in Utah for example and still be a leftist like someone from LA.

[@Daewonnni]

I feel Korean churches can be messed up in general. They may not be to the extent of this cult here but yes, gaslighting, guilt tripping and tribalism in the Korea Christian church scene can be toxic. However there are many people within them as well who genuinely try and follow Jesus, and try to help the weak.

[@trishna_6815]

all of the new christian churches across the world are anti-woman, gay, and trans. terrible organisations who generally prey on weak/isolated/vulnerable people with promises of individual prosperity and benefits.

[@YohanaYohanes]

I cant believe a korean friend in chat app happens to be from this cult,at first i didnt know,she was insisting that i should join bible study on zoom,i tried so many times but the time difference came in the way,but then she started saying i should move to korea one day,that she have to report everything that we shared to the leader,and some odd things,i thaught something isnt right,so i started asking about her church and who is the leader of the church,n she start pushing me to join and i refused so she said she will not be friends with me unless i join ,what did i get my self in to i was so shocked and stopped talking to her,i thank God for his protection over me!!!

[@charmander777]

i believe possibly one reason why such fringe churches have popped up include the following : 1. the mainstream churches in korea that have grown huge themselves have a bad reputation of corruptive practices and many people are disillusioned 2. these fringe churches are filling a gap left from the breakdown of the traditional family structure due to the mass migration of people from the countryside into seoul 3. the emptiness people are feeling living in hell joseon from all the materialism/stress i don't have any data to back this up. it's just my guess base on my own experience

[@phoibilalhriatirenthlei4809]

Waahhh now I understood why my friends were so worried about joining my Korean friend's church fellowship, and warned me to check if they were cults or not(well my friends were not cults infact they are the real followers of Christ who gave their lives follow Him). There are so many lost sheep in this world while different kind of cults keep on coming up. We really need to focus on the truth and pray that these kind of cults may end and we the followers of Christ may reach out the people who are really hurting and who needs Christ! Let's keep praying for the Shinjeonji church, that they may walk out from this wrong path. 🙏

[@chodic364]

Mizo ka hmuh ve hlawl chuh

[@phoibilalhriatirenthlei4809]

@@chodic364 😄

[@dinthari_dragon]

mizo ♥️

[@chodic364]

@@phoibilalhriatirenthlei4809 btw South Korea ah i awm ami?

[@RomeJuanatas]

Having more informative videos like this is beneficial to a lot of people! While it's easy to just hate on cult leaders or those who propagate their secretive agenda, spreading awareness is a much more novel cause. I hope more people will become aware of different new age religions that behave like this in order not to fall into their traps.

[@joyce1343]

This sounds straight out of that kdrama "Save Me"

[@kundaigogoma9420]

And the sad truth that's its a reality that drama triggered me every episode, people are way too naive I dare someone to try that BS with me

[@andrewgurung5214]

I pray for the peace and grace of God in South Korea!! Thank you Pastor Paul Jeong for your work of Counseling among cult members. We really need to pray and work against the growing cult oversees through counseling ministry. Holy-Spirit guide you more to reach oversees. Prayers from Kalimpong, India.

[@gowdsake7103]

Why is Pastor Paul Jeong not just another false prophet and cult leader ? How do you determine the right bible ?

[@andrewgurung5214]

@@gowdsake7103it is not on people but on Jesus Christ we believe. The life, work and teachings of Jesus Christ is the central to any Christian.

[@gowdsake7103]

@@andrewgurung5214 Sighs then prove that such a person even existed let alone the miracles

[@andrewgurung5214]

@@gowdsake7103 what is doubtful about Jesus Christ to not consider him the Savior and Lord of our life?

[@andrewgurung5214]

@@gowdsake7103 What do you know about Pastor Paul Jeong which is contradictory to the Biblical Principles of ministry and teaching?

[@JayR-lz3ui]

Yikes. My friend was brought up in the unification church. It really messed him up. I was also in a US evangelical cult. Left me really traumatized.

[@bellybutton3838]

Please allow CLOSED CAPTIONING in English for the narration and voice overs for Deaf Viewers , Thank You ! There is translation but not CC english option for the the voice over and narration.

[@callmepotatogirl8267]

I don’t know if I’ve met any shincheonji members but I know they’re recruiting in Germany’s big cities like Hamburg, Berlin and Düsseldorf. I read on social media that some people lost their relationships because of it and first of all it only seems like a new hobby cause they’re learning Korean. Since kpop became so big it’s nothing suspicious, I’m also learning Korean at Uni. But it makes me uncomfortable to think that people could just use me for their cult while acting like they want to know me and befriend me. Hopefully this spreads more awareness and people stop approaching them

[@thisisjujus5977]

Well. The same happened to me. About a year ago i went to South Korea for my studies. And i meet some an another french girl that proposed me to go to her church. She was saying that they help foreigners but then she started about bible reading sessions. I accepted to be nice. And then those church became more and more invasive. We were having bible sessions almost everyday for 3/4 hours and we would meet also on weekends. And then one day i couldn’t go to those sessions because i was sick. And one of them came to my little goshiwon room and tried to force me to come. I couldn’t say no again and i ended up going to the sessions sick and extremely weak. Their teaching was weird and I was asking questions and they kept saying “ We will answer later do not worry”. Also sometimes i didn’t want to pray and they forced me to do it. I ended up meeting with one of them and I told them that i wanted to leave and if they continued harassing me i would make a report to the police. In one week they all disappeared and they were all talking the same way as if they were use to it. About the french girl that brought me to this cult. She ended up leaving 2 but she didn’t want to tell me because i guess she was ashamed of it. I cutted ties will her and all of them. I never thought those things could happen since i’m very careful. But i was alone in a foreign country without any relatives so i guess this was my weakness and they used it...

[@damnumonkeyballs]

Read the Word yourself. Don't let others tell you what the Lord has in store for you. You dont have to do it all at once. I've been a Christian all my life and haven't read it all but I've been blessed enough to make it this far so i can continue learning. Love one another.

[@belepoangmai1800]

You said it right! I ain't no religious person but having a personal relationship with God is better than having someone to intercede between God and us.

[@kundaigogoma9420]

Thank you salvation is a sole journey

[@gowdsake7103]

Aww you cherry pick the nice bits then and avoid all the hard unjustifiable immoral stuff then ?

[@GravityGamingCo]

@@gowdsake7103 There is no "immoral" stuff in the Bible all is righteous and pure.

[@gowdsake7103]

@@GravityGamingCo Really ? you think slavery, rape and stoning is all moral then ?

[@androidunderground40]

So some cults have leaders that have the same importance like Jesus? 🤔 sounds like a certain portion of the U.S population that lives in the bible belt.

[@andrewsimmons9893]

For Shincheonji, the leader is more important than Jesus, as only through meeting him, hearing his testimony and believing it, can you enter heaven, receive salvation and eternal life.

[@Cindy99765]

@Mike F This is a more extreme case, but one of my local churches has a pastor that hanged posters of Trump on walls around the church. He regularly preached that Trump was a savior meant to save the US from abortion and immorality. I noticed that in hyper-Evangelical spaces, some pastors/politicians are regarded with abnormal levels of influence.

[@Daewonnni]

I think the difference here is can you leave by your own volition? I don’t know if this cult forces people to stay, but physical force is just one tool. Manipulation, fear and gaslighting shouldn’t be part of any Christian church that’s shaped around Christ. Christianity is about loving God and neighbour. The strong serving the weak. Loving your enemies etc.

[@andrewsimmons9893]

@@Daewonnni No physical force used, but everything else you listed is there. Most members are unaware they're using these techniques on others, even though they train you to do so. They redefine and reframe your point of view to align with the cult's so that you think convincing someone with underhanded means is the work of God and His spirits.

[@ColoSnowWolf]

I understand all of this. I have been living in Korea for 10 years. I was invited in, and actually attended many "Bible Studies", but I had a good knowledge of the bible, so immediately red flags started flying. I stayed in the study group and took several notebooks of notes, just to find out their thinking. Then, I left.

[@ColoSnowWolf]

In the group I was with, there were all ages, not just young.

[@lemingau6855]

I know that in some universities in São Paulo, there's korean churches approach kpop fans due to the k-pop fever (and yellow fever) but they're actually trying to recruit members. Idk if it's shicheonji tho...

[@TheoGobensen]

"we are not a cult" said every cult ever. Is it me or does this seem like jumping from one cult to another? :P

[@13lacle]

yup, but a less directly controlling one at least. 13:42 is particularly ironic with all the religious iconography while reading religious doctrine.

[@user-zb8yy1uf2z]

That's what I was thinking, but maybe this can help them slowly get away from cults all together

[@TheoGobensen]

@@user-zb8yy1uf2z Don't get me wrong. I do believe that the pastor is very well-intentioned. But my thinking is simply that a cult "support group" shouldnt have religious affliations. It should be a one focused on non-religious counselling, to allow people to transition back into secular society. This to me seems like just transitioning between differing versions of "truths".

[@user-zb8yy1uf2z]

@@TheoGobensen exactly!!! And the way they do the whole going out and recruiting thing is very questionable, im not saying they're a cult but I'm saying it looks like all they're doing is taking advantage of mentally unstable victims.

[@eterenalbeauty]

@@TheoGobensen secular society doesnt have the answers people are looking for. Only God, the Bible is the truth. Just read it for yourself and know God FOR YOURSELF

[@Joseph-lz5er]

Their denial and defense against criticism sounds similar how North Korea always defend themselves. Says a lot about how evil this church is.

[@gowdsake7103]

Really ? prove god then !

[@chrisdooley6468]

This is the type of interesting video from Vice that I like. I swear Vice Asia makes better content 🙂

[@100056255]

Because it focuses on stories and escapes the reporter centered storytelling with the sfiff:"I wanted to know more about X so I did X". Tell that to your editor and craft a good story!

[@chrisdooley6468]

@@100056255 well written. I so prefer these especially from Vice Asia. Very entertaining

[@caimaccoinnich9594]

Vice Asia is usually just reposts from the main channel.

[@Moodboard39]

Ehh. Coulve been better . Missing alot more information

[@kupmeiphom4711]

I can relate to that lady coz I was also part of cult ministry run by korean shepherd in (.......) I was loyal servant, giving my best untill they told me to leave the person I love and told me that they will announce that I didnot do anything wrong ( means I wasn't in love 🙄I'm supposed to marry person that they directed me to marry 🙄) my conscience didnot allow me to accept that. I was given a choice ,to leave a man I love or the monistry. I decided to leave both.but thank God , He led me in a sound Christian Church . Now married to that same person 😀Although I was depressed n afraid, I know I'm not lost. We were taught that if we leave the ministry means I have lost my salvation, God will be angry. I pray for my friends who still follow faithfully n cnt accept the fact that they are taught the wrong doctrine n takes you away from FAMILY n stop you from connecting with Friends n other Christian churches. Be alert!

[@snehadebbarma9291]

A similar group or the same one may be, had approached me in India. I’m from a little state called Tripura and they were outside a hospital (I was a medical student at that time and a doctor now). I was surprised to see Koreans there and them trying to convince people to join their Christian group. I was in awe of their dedication to have come this far, speaking hardly any English and trying their best. It was like nagging though.

[@anya5893]

Missionaries have already converted the majority of population of Meghalaya, Mizoram and Nagaland to Christianity. I've heard the church there is so powerful that you need their permission for construction of roads, schools and even government buildings. I don't really care about religion and what others believe, but manipulating people into accepting your religion is wrong in so many levels.

[@s_p5321]

@@anya5893 ,oh I'm from Mizoram and our roots of Christianity started during the British Raj I guess , or so it might be later than that , but the British missionaries were our roots of Christianity , just wanna say.

[@hey_you.]

​@@anya5893 Exactly 💯

[@jayb2760]

This is not only happening in Korea. I was in this cult without knowing it were a cult. Thought it was just Bible studies till I actually went to the church. I'm in SA and this cult is global. I am glad I left.

[@PennyMsElite]

No ads👏😊

[@dudaljkk]

A few months ago i watched a kdrama,on Netflix,called “Save Me” which portrays something very similar to this.The life of a young girl,who was forced by her parents to go to a church and horrible things happened to her including aggression there. In fact,she would be forced to marry the "pastor" of the church who was old enough to be her grandfather,but,happily,she was saved before that happened. It’s sad but at the same time crazy to know that such things like still exists in the world…

[@user-nj3ej4ei7t]

I have an amazing story. One day I was driving home, when all of a sudden the Lord came to me in spirit. I felt very close to Him. I knew if I asked him to play any song on the radio he would, I guess to bless my faith. So I said "ok, Lord play "Come as you are by Nirvana". I turned on the radio and the song started playing right there on the spot, perfectly… I started getting flooded with chills like a waterfall, crying, and trembling. He stayed with me for 10 minutes in my driveway. until I got outta the car. A couple months after that I started getting amazing prayers answered way more often, because it helped me quit doubting when I pray and I was lined up with biblical instructions. It's 6 years later and I still get answered prayers in Jesus name.

[@andalkan1]

And now she working, paying taxes, going to fitness, watching TV and she`s happy.

[@MissGourmandefr]

This type of thing is really sad for the ones who genuinely want to have spiritual study groups without any ulterior motives, people might think that they are cults at first glance be 100

[@kajalchoudhary9886]

This same thing happened in my family My uncle joined a cult because of our neighbour aunty she bring an pastor leader of her and bought some people with her And after that my uncle and his family changed their religion and joined a cult it's so hard to bring them back to normal to break their beliefs

[@CamdenBloke]

There was a South Korean Christian Cult on my university campus called University Bible Fellowship. I went through an ultra-religious phase before becoming atheist and was breifly involved with this group, but never actually joined. I've read descriptions on the interner written by and about people I knew at the specific location/group that I was involved with and they are so screwed up - what I would have seen or become involved with had I joined. They do marry you off soon after you join. Sometimes they actually fly someone over from Korea to be a spouce.

[@tawanamufasa291]

to be honest I wouldn't put Christian and cult in the same sentence. They were a cult period. And twisted words from the bible in order to fit their own narrative. That's why its always better just to do it your self. Read the bible you self. Acquire knowledge about politics yourself. I mean you aren't going to just sit there and listen and believe an obvious far right person or go somewhere because someone else says so. You have to your own research !!!

[@dorothymontrose6371]

@@tawanamufasa291 they were influenced by Christianity though. They did not claim to teach the word of Islam or any other religion. Most of these cults are Christianity based

[@Pearlebaby]

I remember when I was approached by some of these cult followers and I could immediately tell who they were and told them I'm sorry I am follower of Christ Jesus and they left me alone. Some of my friends were not so lucky and were stalked.

[@grenvillegreen5142]

I am South African and was part of scj for a few years. It was very difficult leaving the 'church" It is true about the tactics they use to lie and manipulate people into joining. I pray that people in there can come to the truth that salvation is not found in this place. We are saved by grace alone by faith alone in Christ, to God be the glory alone (Romans 3)

[@retangsandra5987]

I need help Grenville ,I'm so confused.

[@retangsandra5987]

I'm also in south Africa

[@grenvillegreen5142]

Hi there. Happy to help where I can

[@retangsandra5987]

@NOLUTHANDO SIBUSISIWE Dludla yes 😭😭😭😭

[@Dense197]

What are you nowadays ?? A athiest . Cuz many Christian are turning to it , including me

[@davidmax9016]

There will always be people who will twist the word of God for their own benefit, but may God protect and heal all those who have been hurt by them

[@hassanmohamud3096]

*word of Paul

[@rinahutajulu2651]

woww seeing how the parents and the family tried so hard to save their kids is so heartbreaking, it is unconditional love

[@soulful.makunga]

I used to live in new delhi for my studies I'm from North East India. While coming back from college few amazingly looking North East girls tried to talk to me in the metro station saying there is a Bible study group. A guy from korea came to delhi and he is organising a Bible study/gathering group. Long story short, I went twice to join the group after that i stopped going because I was so busy with my studies. Still some members call me up or text me up why I didn't show up or when will i be free and so on. Which was very suspicious.Later I came to know through my church members that it's SHINCHEONJI. Oh my god I still get goosebumps to this day thinking how they teach and preach so well to lure someone into believing something that doesn't even exist.

[@havanax8096]

Are you a Hindu ?

[@soulful.makunga]

@@havanax8096 nope

[@soulful.makunga]

@@havanax8096 I clearly mentioned my *church members 😊

[@havanax8096]

@@soulful.makunga ok

[@melberedo1088]

This should be documented by Asian Boss but they always do public interview videos

[@charmander777]

i was a member of a korean fringe church in Canada. their teaching was heretical. they believed that a korean man was the second coming of Christ. I was young and going through tough times in life (break up with girlfriend, struggling with school) and they welcomed me. they were my friends. i loved them and i can feel their love for me. One day,, they took my Bible and removed the cross from the cover by scratching the gold etching off. I never went back after that since they clearly wanted to remove any focus towards Jesus Christ and instead towards that 'korean' 2nd coming messiah. So my experience was mix with good memories and also some disturbing ones such as that, but nothing super crazy like the one in 'Save Me'. my first trip to korea was with this fringe church. we went to meet the Heavenley Mother. in the back of my mind i knew this was all pretty BS but anyways it was an all expenses paid stay at this really fancy resort in Okcheon. there was literally a mountain that was shaped like an eagle above the traditional korean house we all stayed in. the food was very food. honestly it was one of the best experiences of my life. they focused a lot on apocolyptic teachings. nways during my stay at the retreat i had a 'handler' basically someone was assigned to watch over me. he was a nice guy but i suspect they knew i wasn't totally sold out on the teachings and was jusst their for the free food and accommodations lol

[@sana_saint]

Dang that's creepy what they did to your bible...

[@gpaulac5284]

In the Philippines we also have these kinds of religions and among others INC is the most established one

[@SharleneKate]

And quiboloy

[@ricoquitoo6102]

Dude I’m a member of INC I hate it so much I was literally born into it

[@rayoza2607]

INC rebel here - glad you’re all here speaking out. Keep fighting, friends. We WILL win and break free from their shackles.

[@TNP33]

So sad. This is NOT the true gospel and actually the absolute Opposite of what it means to follows Christ. Jesus was against religion and no wonder people are turned off about religion. Follow Jesus and have a relationship with HIM, NOT RELIGION. #relationshipnotreligion

[@User-cb4jm]

I don't think you could even call it Christianity, it seems to just be an embezzlement scheme for the financial benefit of one man who created it within the last few decades or so, nothing to do with Christian teachings apart from the initial study period probably to make it feel mainstream to bring in Koreans who are already likely Christians.

[@NotLikeWhatYouThink]

I search this religion claim lee was the return jesus?so people in korea or other didnt know jesus must from children of isreal decendents tribe of judah?he also middle eastern not korean?his decendents lineage even have record that we cannot manipulate?he came down in syria in damascus and he never preach outside palestine and only send to children of isreal and that law specifically for them too?even disciple same too..Plus he also have miracle that can be tested and he preaching for free never ask reward and jesus cannot take a reward except gift from people..jesus also didnt have house always sleep on street and preaching day and night.He memorize torah and gospel too and can be tested he also pray,fasting,give charity etc..actually no anybody can claim they are prophets or God..they are strict criteria..jesus must have seal of prophet and also mark on hand(all prophet have this)sign of prophethood..if didnt know can ask children of isreal they know better..they also have significant character eg never lie,honest,loyal,brave etc..fyi all PROPHET they handsome😁if not handsome clearly not jesus la😄plus another sign they will be called crazy and will be threathen to be killed including their companion.They also must a shepred😅he..he.oh ya jesus only came when end of the world near one of it evilness everywhere eg war,slander etc..jesus need to killed anti-christ fake messiah in PALESTINE not in korea..he didnt came for holiday or have a lavish life.

[@silverblue73]

Both are imaginary, one is a character and one is an entire mythology in which that character stars

[@poo11apr84]

It's a nice emotional piece but I guess I was hoping for more details and specifics. I don't think this adequately explained why Sincheonji is a cult or the tactics they go through to gather and isolate followers.

[@ElloBoppit]

I am touched by the lengths her family went to support her after she departed from the Shincheonji.

[@summe1972]

My wife is involved in this, for the past few years, and everything they are saying is true. I'm not sure how to continue dealing with this. The lies are astounding. I'm reaching a point where I might just have to leave my marriage, but I just don't want to do that yet. If anyone here in Korea can help me, I would be forever thankful.

[@hugstasya282]

Pray to God for help.

[@johanna2322]

yes I also recommend you to pray to the Lord Jesus as someone is blind and deaf to the truth in such a position

[@tttiffa]

I'm glad she's still a Christian and knows this isn't what all churches are like. A lot of people become atheists after bad experiences with other Christians...

[@christinea.a.a]

Ikr! She must be very important in a plan God has for her and or someone around her

[@NYD666]

No, we become atheists; cuz yall lack proof.

[@missionrestopia]

@@christinea.a.a We are all important in God's plan, he doesn't skip one to get to the other. This nature of God is seen in Jesus' parables: the lost coin and the prodigal son. He is the shepherd who leaves the 99 to find the 1. As for those who fall back into atheism they are not beyond his reach. His heart is to find every lost one as if they are the only one.

[@Moodboard39]

Christian make it look bad lol cuz they think every bible chapters applies to them.

[@steve222345]

This is one of the few things that make me glad I'm old... because once you're older, you tend to be more efficient at picking out people who genuinely want to help compare to people who have ulterior motives

[@namename-ph7bg]

they tend to not go for older people too, since they would probably be less naive.

[@therese8958]

My family were part of the Unification Church 😭 but my mom left and we don't have plan on coming back . I know people who are still part of it. "Father" the founder passed away , and his wife now ruled, one of their son had his own "church" as well. There's nothing wrong in the teachings but the way the organization manage doesn't sit well with me. We are not part of any religious group right now. I realized ,being close to God has nothing to do with having a certain religion/group .

[@ARIANAADEMI]

A woman approached me on my college campus in the U.S. She started reading verses that mentioned “Mother God” and then asked if I was interested in joining a bible study. I already knew of these cults so I got out of there ASAP!

[@Orparticles13]

i think i know what you're talking about, "God the Mother" right, apparently its part of something called the World Mission Society Church of God. they are here in europe too, two Korean girls approached me twice in a week and showed me a video each time about it, i was too polite to walk away so i just watched until the end both times and faked interest and said i'd email them about it later lmao

[@hannahyoon4524]

Lol you haven’t had the real Korea experience without getting approached by the Mother God cult. They also ask you to get baptized!

[@kels729]

Bigger than Shincheonji is the World Mission Society Church of God who believe that a man (who died) named Ahnsahnghong is 2nd Coming Christ and a woman living in Korea named Zhang Gil Jah is God the Mother.

[@T6S10CM]

There's a korean drama on this topic called "Save Me". It's so depressing, the actress was even actually diagnosed with depression after starring in the drama. And anyway, I lived in Korea for some time and whenever I got out of the subway station there are always people spreading church leaflets, I don't know if they're a cult or a legit church but this video is not exaggerating at all.

[@marianasidebang3836]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I had much curiousity about this cult..cause I know this teaching Will be spread to other countries

[@shxxxnxx1604]

this is a bit lengthy... it i was in a similar group for almost seven years. not scj, but another korean "christian" organisation that expanded in ph. (i don't want to say the name because i may get bashed, i'm sorry) one of their strategies is to build "schools" and offer "scholarships" to lure young minds to go to their church. of course, parents would also take interest and attend their church as well. while these may seem like all good, they teach that they're the only organisation to be saved. they don't say it outright, but they plant doubts whenever my friends and i would attend worship services in other churches. they would say, "oh, i talked to the pastor from that church, and they don't teach the bible," or "oh, they just focus on singing, not on the word of god." so of course, being a naive kid enrolled in that school, i won't go to any other church. plus, they bash the catholic church soooo much (being here in ph). they teach to dislike the culture, the hierarchy, the structure, everything. but they also have the same structure, trainings, camps to be "more spiritual" and to be qualified as a "leader of the church." and they also have the same figure as the pope (which they bash so much). they don't treat him as the "messiah," but rather they take his word as the ultimate guide to salvation. but when you actually here his preachings, it's all about his plans to expand the church in the guise of "evangelism" and that we should work together to spread the word of god to our friends, families, and workmates (even if they disown us because it won't matter because the church is there). basically, the isolation that they talked about here in the video. there's too many to mention, but it would be too long. i've since left that organisation, but its shadows still haunt me to this day and probably forever. i've become so overly critical in everything about spiritual beings that when i hear, all i can think of is bullshit.

[@safewithout]

this pastor has impeccable style

[@Joseph-lz5er]

Cults go after the weak and vulnerable so stay level headed and strong then these cults should just go away.

[@user-km5jo5yj5c]

How can I reach the pastor in this video?? I really want to help with counseling those coming out of Shincheonji

[@Kookie-zc3gt]

What's the difference between those groups and major organised religions anyway?

[@justicelove09]

There’s something similar like that in the Philippines, it’s called Inglesia Ni Christo (Church of Christ). Filipino’s who aren’t a part of it consider them a cult. It’s not as bad as this but they pretty culty too.

[@gabyesco4115]

Literally had one of them come up to me and my friend today. I don’t understand how people just go with them and fall for this so easily??

[@shashwatshah9127]

Pls have running English commentary for the non English parts also. I listen like a podcast while driving so subtitles alone don’t help

[@faithbradley4224]

I hope that the lady in this is doing really well in her life ❤