OPINION:
South Korea, once a symbol of democracy that I deeply respect and have visited numerous times, has recently become a beacon of religious persecution and authoritarianism, veering dangerously toward totalitarianism.
The recent attacks on churches and Christian leaders bear a striking resemblance to the atrocities committed by Adolf Hitler against the Jews during World War II.
As a Jew whose ancestors suffered under anti-religious racism, I am appalled by the actions of South Korea’s current president and his government, particularly their unjust treatment of Dr. Hak Ja Han Moon, an 82-year-old grandmother known worldwide as “The Mother of Peace.”
What is especially shocking is the government’s invasion of a sacred sanctuary while innocent people were praying. This violent act of terrorism at a church is equivalent to storming the Vatican, destroying church property and imprisoning religious leaders like the Pope or Mother Teresa.
Dr. Moon, alongside her late husband, the Rev. Sun Myung Moon, has made extraordinary contributions to Korea and the world. Together, they dedicated their lives to bringing global peace, ending atheistic communism, reconciling religious divisions and promoting character education among youths.
They personally blessed millions of couples, helping to create God-centered families. Their tireless efforts toward the unification of North and South Korea demonstrated their commitment to bringing peace to their homeland. They also served as ambassadors for Korean culture, sharing its art, music and language with the world.
Dr. Moon is one of the most respected humanitarian leaders and peacemakers of our time. This baseless attack on her and her movement will be remembered as one of the darkest chapters in Korea’s history. Political and religious leaders around the world are closely monitoring this grave miscarriage of justice, working to ensure that Dr. Moon’s human rights are restored and that she is released from illegal detention.
EDY IVERSEN
Former co-director, American Constitution Committee
Paris, France
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