JMS victim Maple Yip publishes a book about her experience.
Maple, a survivor featured in the Netflix documentary In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal, has released a book telling her personal story of abuse and survival. She was one of the victims who revealed how she was sexually assaulted by Jung Myung Seok, the leader of the Christian Gospel Mission (JMS).
For those who haven’t seen the documentary, Maple stood out because she bravely showed her face and real name, openly testifying against the cult and shocking audiences worldwide.
On social media, Maple recalled,
“When I was 28, I filed charges against JMS. I revealed my face, my real name, and even my story. Because of that, I was able to bring down a cult that had lasted for 40 years.”
From brainwashing to breaking free
In her book, Maple writes in detail about how she was recruited into JMS at just 16 and 17 years old, how she was manipulated and brainwashed, and the painful process of escaping the group. She also talks about her decision to take legal action.
She said many people may think cults and sexual abuse have nothing to do with them, but that’s because they don’t truly understand what victims go through.
Writing to heal, warning to others
For Maple, putting her story into words was also a way to heal. She hopes her book serves as a warning.
“I hope people who read this will realise that if they take the wrong path, they may end up in danger. Learn from my scars, and protect yourselves,” she said.
Turning pain into strength
Maple shared that she wants her suffering to be transformed into something meaningful.
“Pain should not just end as pain. It should become a source of comfort, hope, and even love for others, for society, and for the world,” she said.
She added that our lives leave behind traces, and she hopes her story will inspire others and have a positive impact on future generations.
A warning on dangerous groups
Maple also warned that manipulative and controlling groups are everywhere in society.
“You may fall into them without even realising. I hope more people can avoid, escape, or help those who are trapped. I wish for this issue to be solved, not just in Korea, but across the world,” she said.
Meanwhile, Cho Sung Hyun, the director of In the Name of God and I Am a Survivor, revealed at a recent press event that Maple is expecting a baby in December with her husband, Hong Kong actor Alex Fong. He said,
“It is deeply meaningful that survivors not only regained happiness in daily life but are now bringing new life into the world. That is the greatest happiness.”
