The leader of a secretive South Korean sect has knelt before the cameras on Monday and apologized for the coronavirus outbreak to their country.
The coronavirus disease has infected over 4,000 people in South Korea and has killed at least 17 people in the recent weeks. South Korea has the most number of cases outside China.
Shincheonji head Lee Man-hee’s asked for forgiveness after Seoul authorities filed murder complaints against him for not cooperating in containing the epidemic.
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The large cases in South Korea is being associated with the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, which is often condemned as a cult.
“I would like to offer my sincere apology to the people,” Lee said.
“Although it was not intentional, many people have been infected,” the 88-year-old leader and bowed his head twice before the reporters and cameras.
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“I seek the forgiveness of the people. I am very thankful to the government for its efforts. I also seek the forgiveness of the government,” he added.
Lee is known as the ‘Promised Pastor’ by his church. He vows to his members to take 144,000 people to heaven on Judgement day.
A 61-year-old female member who tested positive for the virus attended four church services in Daegu.
Members sit close together on the floor and pray extensively which eventually lead to viral infections.
Seoul’s city government will file homicide against Lee and 11 other leaders after submitting a false list of its members.
