Is it a sanctuary or a prison? That’s the question that hangs in the air here at the Nadi Korean Church in Fiji. This seemingly ordinary church, nestled amidst the tropical beauty of Fiji, harbors a complex and unsettling story. The Nadi Korean Church is affiliated with the Grace Road Church, a South Korean group that relocated to Fiji in 2014. Their leader, Shin Ok-ju, predicted a famine in Korea and declared Fiji the “center of the world” as promised in the Bible. Around 400 followers made the journey, seeking refuge and spiritual renewal. But paradise soon turned into a prison for some.
The Grace Road Church, led by Shin Ok-ju, established a significant presence in Fiji. They created the Grace Road Group, a conglomerate of businesses ranging from restaurants and supermarkets to construction and agriculture. The Nadi Korean Church serves as a spiritual center for this community. It’s a place where followers gather for worship and find solace in their shared beliefs. But beneath the surface lies a darker tale. Accusations of cult-like practices, human rights violations, and forced labor have plagued the Grace Road Church for years. Former members have testified to forced labor, passport confiscation, and brutal ritual beatings. These “threshing” sessions, as they are called, involve public slapping and beatings for even minor transgressions.
While the Fijian government initially welcomed the economic benefits brought by the Grace Road Group, questions arose about the church’s practices. A 2018 raid on the church headquarters, prompted by the arrest of Shin Ok-ju in South Korea, uncovered a drawer full of passports, raising concerns about the control exerted over followers. Despite the allegations, the Grace Road Church continues to operate in Fiji. Daniel Kim, Shin’s son, leads the group and its businesses, which remain popular among locals. This raises questions about the complexities of economic development and ethical considerations. The Nadi Korean Church stands as a stark reminder of the blurred lines between faith, exploitation, and economic power. The idyllic setting belies the alleged suffering of those trapped within the church’s grip. The church’s story is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power within religious organizations and the complexities of balancing economic development with human rights concerns.