Victims' Group Files Fraud Charges Against World Mission Society Church of God Leaders

On the afternoon of the 27th, the Victims’ Association of the World Mission Society Church of God (hereinafter referred to as HAPIMO) filed fraud charges with the Supreme Prosecutor’s Office against Jang Gil-ja (74), revered as "Mother God," and Kim Joo-cheol, General Assembly Chairman of the World Mission Society Church of God (WMSCOG).

In a press conference held before submitting the complaint, HAPIMO stated, “We are exposing the habitual doomsday fraud committed by the World Mission Society Church of God.”

Suh Young-geun and Kim Yong-han, co-representatives of HAPIMO, along with other victims, alleged that “Jang Gil-ja and Kim Joo-cheol propagated doomsday predictions for 1988, 1999, and 2012 to amass personal wealth, swindling countless members out of their property.”

They further claimed, “The fraudulent activities of Jang and Kim have led to a surge in victims across China, Singapore, Mongolia, and the United States, prompting the formation of victim support groups. U.S. media outlets have widely reported on the church’s role in family destruction, warning the public about its activities.”

Allegations of Church Real Estate Hoarding

HAPIMO also raised suspicions about the church’s acquisition of real estate.

“Jang Gil-ja and Kim Joo-cheol, who confidently proclaimed the world would end in 2012, purchased 90 church properties worth approximately 700 billion KRW between 2012 and 2016,” HAPIMO said. “Instead of apologizing for deceiving and exploiting believers, they have heavily publicized these acquisitions.”

The group stated, “We filed this complaint to hold Jang Gil-ja and Kim Joo-cheol accountable for their fraudulent activities and the resulting harm. We urge a thorough, unrestricted investigation.”

Evidence Submitted

The criminal complaint submitted by HAPIMO includes 300 pages of evidence, such as recorded statements from key former members of the church.

The case has been filed with the Criminal Division 1 of the Supreme Prosecutor’s Office.

Church Denies Allegations

Regarding the complaint, a representative of the World Mission Society Church of God stated, “The accusations are false.”

Reporter: Song Ju-yeol, CBS NoCut News (jysong@cbs.co.kr)
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