Hwang Kyo-ahn: "I Will Attend In-Person Worship... Freedom of Religion Must Be Guaranteed"

Former Future United Party (predecessor of the People Power Party) leader Hwang Kyo-ahn is declaring his presidential candidacy at the National Assembly on the 1st./Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Heo Midam] Hwang Kyo-ahn, former leader of the United Future Party (now People Power Party), who declared his presidential bid, criticized the current administration's quarantine rules that strictly restrict religious activities, stating on the 18th that "a complete ban on in-person worship is unconstitutional."

Visiting Daegu that day, Hwang wrote on his Facebook, "I will attend in-person worship at church today," expressing his stance.

He pointed out, "Article 20 of the Constitution states that 'All citizens shall have freedom of religion.' It also stipulates that 'Even when restricting citizens' freedoms, the essential content cannot be infringed.' The government is uniquely strict in limiting religious activities compared to other facilities. This is unfair and unjust. It infringes on religious freedom."

He urged the government, "I call on the government to now allow freedom of religion. Churches, cathedrals, and temples alike. Religious freedom must be guaranteed for all. This is the people's command and a declaration of the Constitution," emphasizing his point.

He continued, "Religious people are among those who comply most thoroughly with quarantine measures. They have strictly followed social distancing and adhered to quarantine principles upon entry. Everyone wore masks and used hand sanitizer. Why is it allowed elsewhere but not for religious groups?" he questioned.

Furthermore, he stated, "Those who violate quarantine rules must be held strongly accountable because it is a betrayal of the community. However, it should not become a situation where restaurants are completely banned from operating as a preventive measure even when no outbreak has occurred," raising his voice.

In conclusion, Hwang said, "I will continue to strictly observe quarantine rules while enjoying freedom of religion. I will not give up religious freedom in the face of the government's unjust orders," ending his statement.

Meanwhile, it was reported that Hwang attended an in-person worship service at a church during his visit to Daegu that day. While in Seoul and the metropolitan area, in-person worship has been completely banned since the 12th due to the elevation of social distancing to level 4, Daegu remains at level 2, allowing in-person worship at up to 30% of church capacity.

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