Fake Pastor and Academy Director Sentenced for Child Abuse in Suwon

In a disturbing case from Suwon, a fake pastor and an academy director have been sentenced to prison for repeatedly abusing children under their care. On June 19, 2025, Judge Jang Hye-jeong of the Suwon District Court sentenced individual A and director B to five years in prison each for violating the Special Act on the Punishment of Child Abuse Crimes (habitual abuse). They are also barred from working in child-related institutions for ten years. Additionally, instructor C, who was tried alongside them, received a two-year prison sentence and a five-year employment restriction in child-related fields.

The defendants were accused of systematically abusing seven teenage children from 2021 to 2023 at their church and affiliated academy, which primarily provided lodging and education to children from financially struggling families. Reports indicate that the victims were subjected to severe physical punishment, including being forced to kneel and hit multiple times for expressing dissatisfaction with the religious organization or for lying. Some children were even deprived of food for several days.

The abusers also emotionally manipulated the children by instructing them to refer to their parents as 'that man' or 'that woman' and telling them, 'Your parents have abandoned you.' Judge Jang emphasized that the victims were vulnerable individuals seeking refuge due to health issues, family conflicts, and economic hardships. She noted that A, posing as a pastor, indoctrinated the victims with harmful teachings, depriving them of a chance for a healthy upbringing. The defendants have denied the charges, making strict punishment necessary.