Jin Joong-kwon: "Shincheonji Hunt Went Too Far... Cannot Take Extralegal Measures"

Photo by Jin Joong-kwon, former professor at Dongyang University, Facebook capture

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Yeon-ju] Former Dongyang University professor Jin Joong-kwon pointed out on the 1st that "the hunt for Shincheonji seems somewhat excessive" in relation to Seoul city filing a complaint with the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office against Shincheonji leader Lee Man-hee and 12 branch (regional organization) heads on charges of murder, injury, and violation of the Infectious Disease Prevention and Control Act.

On the same day, Jin wrote on his Facebook, "Although Shincheonji is strange in many ways and bears moral responsibility for the spread of the virus, they did not intentionally spread COVID-19."

He stated, "Basically, they are also victims of the virus and citizens who should be protected by the state," adding, "South Korea is a country governed by the rule of law, and no matter how urgent, extralegal measures cannot be taken."

He continued, "Unless they have malicious intent to obstruct state administration, it is not appropriate to conclude their behavior as intentional obstruction and impose 'punishment,'" and said, "I hope we do not forget that tracking Shincheonji members is not to punish them but to protect them from the dangers of the virus."

He added, "No matter how important tracking is, human rights violations must not occur in the process," expressing concern about the current atmosphere.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.