Dispatch recently released an interview with DKZ’s Kyoungyoon, following allegations that his parents were affiliated with the Jesus Morning Star (JMS) cult.
Kyoungyoon revealed that he had been attending JMS Church with his parents since he was a child. He came across Jung Myung Seok’s sermon video and became one of his followers. “I didn’t know at the time. It might seem pathetic, but that’s how it was. Before Jung Myung Seok says, ‘I am the Messiah,’ he lays down bait for 2-3 hours. That’s how you get roped in. It’s a form of gaslighting,” he explained.
Kyoungyoon also shared that he had met the cult leader in person in Wolmyeong-dong and was part of the singing group run by JMS when he was in Grades 8 and 9.
He learned from a young age that Jung Myung Seok was falsely accused, but he said he did not believe this.
Kyoungyoon also spoke about his experience of being bullied as a cult follower during his childhood. He stated that ever since, he has become defensive and has never propagated JMS to anyone, including his agency and group members.
He emphasized that he no longer follows the sect and tearfully stated, “I understand why many people are criticizing cult followers. But couldn’t they help them escape from it? I’m sorry to say this, but I hope they give the followers a chance.”