South Korean Missionary Faces Potential 17-Year Prison Sentence in Russia

South Korean missionary Park Tae-Yeon, 69, is currently on trial in Russia, facing a potential 17-year prison sentence. Park, who has served in Russia for 33 years, was arrested in January 2026 shortly before her planned retirement. While initial charges focused on immigration violations, authorities have also investigated her alleged involvement with religious camps in Khabarovsk.

Park is affiliated with the Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF), an organization that was officially designated as “undesirable” by the Russian government on July 6. This legal action reflects a broader trend of increasing pressure on international Christian ministries operating within the country.

In response to the trial, Voice of the Martyrs Korea is advocating for her release and has launched a global petition that has secured over 4,000 signatures. Supporters and advocacy groups are calling for prayers regarding her health and legal situation as the proceedings continue.