Shen Yun Performing Arts, affiliated with the Falun Gong movement, is facing difficulties securing venues in South Korea due to concerns over its religious and political messaging. Several arts centers in the country have reportedly decided not to approve future performances. According to an official from one venue, “After an internal review, we determined that Shen Yun's performances have religious themes. As a result, we have informed the group that we will not accept future applications for performances.”
Shen Yun has been criticized for incorporating Falun Gong ideology into its shows, with performances featuring banners and messages promoting the movement’s beliefs. Additionally, former performers have reported harsh working conditions, including excessive hours, restricted communication with family, and insufficient medical care.
Some former Shen Yun performers have also claimed that members were subjected to psychological conditioning that discouraged them from leaving the group. They reported that those who criticized or doubted Falun Gong’s leader, Li Hongzhi, were told they could face illness, injury, or even fatal accidents as a result.
Legal issues have also surfaced internationally. In the United States, former Shen Yun members have filed lawsuits against the organization, alleging labor exploitation and abuse. Reports indicate that performers were required to sign agreements limiting their media consumption to Falun Gong-affiliated outlets and restricting external contact. U.S. authorities, including the Department of Homeland Security, have also launched investigations into allegations of visa fraud involving Shen Yun performers.
Additionally, the New York State Department of Labor is reportedly conducting a special investigation into allegations of child labor exploitation within Shen Yun.
Beyond Shen Yun, other entities linked to Falun Gong have also come under scrutiny. In June 2024, the chief financial officer of The Epoch Times, a media outlet affiliated with Falun Gong, was charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office from the Southern District of New York for laundering at least $67 million in illegally obtained funds. Another employee of the organization was also charged in connection with the case.
With these ongoing controversies, South Korean venues remain firm in their stance, stating that they will not host Shen Yun performances due to their religious and political nature.
