Where is Jeong Myeong-Seok today? JMS Church President Explained

By Louie Fecou - March 6, 2023 (Last updated: September 14, 2024)
jeong-myeong-seok-jms-church-president
By Louie Fecou - March 6, 2023 (Last updated: September 14, 2024)

Where is Jeong Myeong-Seok today? We discuss the JMS Church President and where he is today, including the crimes he committed. 

The South Korean Netflix true crime documentary series In The Name of God: A Holy Betrayal has undoubtedly opened the eyes of its viewers. The controversial show does not pull its punches as it explores the atrocities of four Korean leaders that fooled their followers and exploited the belief of the lost souls snared in their web.

One case study involves Jeong Myeong-Seok (or Jung Myung-Seok) and his Christian Gospel Mission, the JMS Church. We answer some of the questions that viewers of the show have, so take a deep breath as we discuss where Jeong Myeong-Seok is now and explore the world of the JMS Church.

Who is Jeong Myeong-Seok?

Jeong Myeong-Seok was born in 1945 and, by 1980, had established The Providence religious movement. The movement evolved as it grew and was also known as the Jesus Morning Star (JMS), also the initials of its President, aiming at a younger demographic and building its membership through the 1990s.

As is often the case with these types of preachers, the self-proclaimed JMS Church President was charismatic and influential. His sermons would often speak of the teachings of the Bible while surrounding himself with beautiful young girls. He would refer to himself as “Adam” and “The Messiah,” and the girls would be “God’s Brides.” Much of Seok’s activities to build his so-called JMS Church would be conducted at centers of learning, such as colleges.

Where is Jeong Myeong-Seok today?

In October 2022, Jeong Myeong-Seok was sent to jail by the district court’s order in the Daejeon District. This was due to allegations leveled against him by women.

At the time of writing, there still has been no trial, but the eight-episode Netflix show has footage of some of his alleged victims.

Is Jeong Myeong-Seok still in jail?

Yes, Jeong Myeong-Seok is still in jail, and it is worth noting that he had been jailed before for similar behavior and was released in 2018, wearing an electronic tag.

Is Jeong Myeong-Seok alive?

The self-proclaimed JMS Church President is still alive in jail.

Did In The Name of God: A Holy Betrayal receive injunctions?

Yes, it did. However, both Netflix and the Korean public broadcaster MBC had to defeat a court injunction about airing the series. The appeal was successful, and Netflix have global rights to the show, including in South Korea. The series has eight episodes that deal with four separate incidents.

And that’s everything we know about Jeong Myeong-Seok, the JMS Church President, and where he is today. What are your thoughts? Comment below.

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