South Korean Protestants Call to End Church-State Collusion Amid Political Controversy

A significant internal reckoning is underway within South Korea's Protestant community, as leaders publicly grapple with the issue of "church-state collusion" and its detrimental impact on the faith's public image. The Hankyoreh reports on a seminar organized by the "I Start With Myself Forum," led by former Korean Federation of Churches (KFC) president Rev. Ryu Young-mo, which directly addressed the need to sever ties that blur the lines between religious institutions and political power. This self-examination is not merely academic; it's a response to mounting public criticism and political pressure. President Lee Jae-myung's directive to address "political collusion" involving groups like the Unification Church and Shincheonji, coupled with a proposed Civil Act amendment that could lead to the dissolution and asset confiscation of religious bodies engaging in political interference, has created an urgent impetus for the mainstream Protestant church to address its own practices. Scholars like Prof. Kim Ju-han of Hanshin University and former president of PCK General Assembly, Lim Seong-bin, have been vocal, criticizing the church's selective engagement with politics – speaking out only when its interests are threatened rather than proactively contributing to societal well-being. They argue that such behavior alienates the public, contributing to the rise of the non-religious population despite Protestantism's large following. The call is for a more responsible and ethical approach to political engagement, one that prioritizes public service and avoids the perception of self-serving alliances. The community is particularly sensitive to the proposed Civil Act amendment, viewing it as a potentially overreaching measure that could unfairly penalize religious organizations. Rev. Ryu Young-mo has called for dialogue with the political sphere, urging the withdrawal of the current amendment and the development of new legislation through careful consultation with religious bodies. The sentiment is that while the intention to prevent undue influence is understandable, the proposed solution risks "burning down the house to catch a flea," potentially leading to severe consequences for religious freedom and activity in the country.

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We must sever the bad practice of church-state collusion.