Government: "Shincheonji Compensation Claims to Be Determined Based on Epidemiological Investigation Results Including Intent and Negligence"

On the 2nd, at a press conference held at the Palace of Peace of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony in Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do, Chairman Lee Man-hee raised his thumb as he exited.<이미지:Yonhap News>

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Dae-yeol] Regarding the numerous confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) centered around Shincheonji Church of Jesus followers, the government announced that it will consider claiming damages by examining whether there was intent or negligence.

On the 6th, Kim Kang-lip, the 1st Chief Coordinator of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, said in a briefing, "For a claim for damages (against Shincheonji) to be established, several prerequisites are necessary," adding, "It is first essential to clearly prove that there was intent or negligence on the part of Shincheonji." He continued, "If (intent or negligence) is proven, naturally the government can consider all necessary measures including claims for damages," but also said, "It is difficult to discuss specific measures based on assumptions, and first, accurate fact-finding through epidemiological investigations is a priority."

Since the first patient was confirmed at the Shincheonji Daegu Church on the 20th of last month, numerous patients have emerged. As of the previous day, 3,452 patients related to Shincheonji have been identified, accounting for 60% of the total domestic cases. Depending on the epidemiological investigation results, there is a high possibility that other patients currently under investigation will be included. In particular, there are over 3,000 Shincheonji patients in the Daegu area alone.

At present, it is difficult for the government to actually take out the card of claiming damages. It is estimated that the 'super-spreader' event occurred around mid-last month, but since the infection routes before and after are unclear, it is not easy to find the initial source of infection. Some followers violated self-quarantine rules and infected contacts around them, but such cases are likely to be punished under the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act. There are also claims that Shincheonji submitted false lists to the quarantine authorities, causing disruption to their work, but the specific facts require multifaceted review including the results of the administrative investigation conducted the previous day.

Meanwhile, Kwon Young-jin, Mayor of Daegu, announced in a briefing that Shincheonji decided not to accept the 10 billion won donation made to Daegu City and the Community Chest of Korea. Mayor Kwon said, "Shincheonji should actively cooperate with the government and Daegu City's quarantine measures rather than giving money."

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