Shincheonji leader apologizes over coronavirus spread

Shincheonji leader Lee Man-hee makes a deep bow before reporters in a show of apology over his followers' contribution to the widespread of coronavirus in South Korea at the Palace of Peace, a training center for Shincheonji believers, in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province, Monday. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul

The leader of a South Korean sect linked to more than half the country's 4,000-plus coronavirus cases apologized Monday for the spread of the disease.

"I would like to offer my sincere apology to the people on behalf of the members," said Shincheonji head Lee Man-hee, 89, his voice breaking.

He twice got on his knees to bow before reporters in Gapyeong, his head to the floor.

"Although it was not intentional, many people have been infected," he said.

"We put our utmost efforts but were unable to prevent it all. I seek the forgiveness of the people.

"I am very thankful to the government for its efforts. I also seek the forgiveness of the government."

Lee speaks to reporters. The woman next to him was seen sporadically relaying questions from reporters, hinting that Lee, 89, could have a hearing problem. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul

Lee holds a written statement during the press conference at the Palace of Peace, a training center for Shincheonji believers, in Gapyeong, Gyeonggi Province, Monday. Korea Times photo by Shim Hyun-chul

Lee is revered by his followers as the "Promised Pastor" who will take 144,000 people with him to heaven on the Judgment Day, and his group is often condemned as a cult.

A female member, 61, developed a fever on February 10, but attended at least four church services in Daegu ― the country's fourth-largest city with a population of 2.5 million and the centre of the outbreak ― before being diagnosed.

South Korea's case numbers are expected to rise further as authorities check more than 260,000 people associated with Shincheonji.

Seoul's city government has asked prosecutors to press charges, including murder, against Lee and 11 other sect leaders for failing to cooperate in containing the spread of the deadly coronavirus.

Lee insisted that the group was "actively cooperating" with the government.

"We will do our best and not spare human and material support," he added, pausing occasionally to wipe away tears as protesters shouted abuse. (AFP)

Site Map E-paper Subscribe Register LogIn
Site Map E-paper Subscribe Register LogIn