Jubilee University, a Christian music college located in Lexington, Missouri, has become the focus of scrutiny amid controversies surrounding its affiliation with the World Olivet Assembly, led by South Korean Pastor David Jang.
The university opened four years ago but currently has very few students, prompting local residents to express concerns about its operations.
The institution is linked to Olivet University, which has faced significant legal issues, including the closure of its New York campus following a money laundering investigation.
In California, allegations of money laundering and visa fraud have led to investigations by Homeland Security, while former students have accused the schools of holding them hostage and exploiting them for labor.
Jubilee University’s president, Marcus Lundin, defended the school and claimed it aims to grow its student body, stating that it currently operates online with around 30 foreign students who are not charged tuition.
Funding for the campus, purchased for about $1 million, mainly comes from church members with businesses across the U.S.
Despite ongoing investigations and legal challenges faced by affiliated institutions, Missouri authorities have yet to take action against Jubilee University.
The church organization operates multiple properties in St. Louis, which also appear largely vacant, raising further questions about its presence and practices in the state.
Critics, including some local pastors, have characterized the organization as a phantom denomination, noting its lack of transparency and questioning its legitimacy.