Korean Christian Council Raises Alarm Over Anti-Discrimination Bill

The Korean Christian Council has voiced significant concerns regarding a proposed anti-discrimination law and an amendment to the Civil Code, claiming these legislative measures could threaten religious freedom in South Korea. In a statement released on February 2, 2024, the council characterized the proposed legislation as potentially leading to “reverse discrimination” against orthodox churches and infringing on the freedom of belief.

The statement, attributed to Chairman Kim Jeong-seok and the council’s co-chairmen, urged lawmakers to reconsider the implications of the anti-discrimination bill currently before the National Assembly. The council expressed broad support for certain policy directions outlined by President Lee Jae-myung during his New Year’s press conference, particularly those aimed at reinforcing the separation of church and state and addressing activities of what the council termed “anti-social religious groups,” including Shincheonji and the Unification Church.

Despite its support for these initiatives, the council cautioned that implementing such policies could inadvertently undermine the legitimate oversight functions of mainstream churches and restrict religious expression. It specifically criticized the anti-discrimination bill, arguing that it could shield non-traditional or heretical groups from necessary criticism. The council contended that the bill’s definitions of religion and ideology as protected categories could lead to the criminalization of doctrinal criticism, potentially labeling it as harassment or hate speech.

In the statement, the council asserted, “If enacted, even legitimate criticism by orthodox churches pointing out doctrinal errors or anti-social behavior could be condemned as hate or harassment.” This concern highlights the delicate balance between protecting individual rights and maintaining the integrity of religious discourse.

The council further objected to a proposed partial amendment to the Civil Code that aims to prevent collusion between religion and politics. It argued that the amendment, sponsored by independent lawmaker Choi Hyuk-jin, is not the appropriate mechanism to regulate anti-social religious behavior. Instead, the council advocates for a separate special law should sanctions be deemed necessary.

The amendment would permit measures such as revoking the legal status of religious corporations found to violate the principle of church-state separation. The council criticized provisions that would allow for the dissolution of religious organizations and the confiscation of assets based on what it described as vague and overly broad criteria, asserting that such measures represent excessive punishment and contradict constitutional values.

As the National Assembly considers these significant legislative changes, the Korean Christian Council’s concerns reflect broader tensions regarding religious freedom and the role of government in regulating faith-based organizations in South Korea. The outcome of this debate will likely have lasting implications for both religious communities and the legal framework governing their operations.