Did Lee Man-hee of Shincheonji Wear a 'Park Geun-hye Watch' at the Press Conference?

Lee Man-hee, the president of Shincheonji Church of Jesus, the Temple of the Tabernacle of the Testimony (Shincheonji), is performing a deep bow at a press conference related to the COVID-19 situation held on the 2nd at the Shincheonji Palace of Peace in Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do. The 'Park Geun-hye watch' on the president's wrist draws attention. Photo by Moon Ho-nam munonam@

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Shinwon Yoon] Lee Man-hee, the chairman of Shincheonji Church of Jesus (Shincheonji), held a press conference regarding the COVID-19 outbreak, and the watch he wore during the conference has sparked controversy online.

On the 2nd, Chairman Lee held a press conference in front of the Shincheonji training center, 'Palace of Peace,' in Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi Province, saying, "I am truly sorry. I don't know how to properly apologize," and "We are cooperating immediately, but I am really ashamed," while performing a deep bow in front of the press.

During the deep bow, Chairman Lee's wrist was exposed, revealing the watch he was wearing. Upon closer inspection, the watch features a phoenix emblem symbolizing the Blue House, with the president's name engraved below it.

The watch has a round bezel and a stainless steel band, resembling the commemorative watch of former President Park Geun-hye. Former President Moon Jae-in's watch also has a round bezel but features a leather strap, while former President Lee Myung-bak's watch has a square bezel. Therefore, suspicions have arisen that Chairman Lee's watch might be the commemorative watch of former President Park Geun-hye.