Looking back, the beginning of Liz Cameron’s harrowing ordeal was as unremarkable as a typical day at a Canberra bookshop. At just 18 years old, Liz was approached by a woman who asked her to fill out a survey on Christian faith. As a Christian herself, Liz saw no harm in engaging. However, this seemingly innocuous interaction marked the start of her entanglement with a notorious South Korean cult.
Liz Cameron’s life took a dramatic turn when she was drawn into the secretive and predatory cult known as Providence, or JMS (Jesus Morning Star), which operates in over 70 countries. For two years, she was isolated from her family and friends, subjected to brainwashing, and nearly lost her sense of self.
The Cult’s Deceptive Tactics
Initially, Liz believed she had found a supportive church community. However, as time passed, the true nature of the group became apparent. “I didn’t even know who this group was for months,” Liz recalls. “They lied to me in a very organized and intentional way.”
The cult employed tactics such as “lovebombing,” where Liz was showered with attention and affection, making her feel special and valued. This manipulation gradually gave way to control, dictating her appearance and behavior. Liz was chosen for her physical attributes, favored by cult leader Jung Myung-seok, who was already imprisoned for sexual assault by the time Liz visited South Korea.
The Escape and Recovery
Liz’s escape from the cult’s grip came after her health deteriorated significantly due to controlled eating and stress. Her family’s intervention led to her rescue in 2013. The recovery process was slow and challenging, but it ignited a determination in Liz to understand how such manipulation could occur.
In her memoir, Cult Bride: How I Was Brainwashed – and How I Broke Free, Liz details her experience and explores the psychology of cults and coercive control. She will be sharing her story at the Canberra Writers Festival, alongside other memoirs and true crime books.
Understanding Cult Psychology
Liz emphasizes the widespread misunderstanding of cult dynamics. “People can be quite judgmental, thinking it could never happen to them,” she notes. “Cults don’t target ‘stupid’ people. They often recruit intelligent, empathetic individuals who are idealistic and want to do good in the world.”
Her insights challenge the stereotypical image of cult victims and highlight the sophisticated methods used to recruit and retain members. Liz’s background as a disciplined, intelligent student at ANU made her an ideal target for Providence recruiters.
Life After the Cult
Today, Liz works in the health sector and assists other recovering cult victims. She reflects on her experience with a sense of detachment, recognizing the fine line between victim and perpetrator in cult dynamics. “I was recruiting, thinking I was saving lives,” she admits, “but I could have unwittingly led someone else into a life of abuse.”
Liz’s journey has been one of resilience and transformation. She keeps a portrait from her time in the cult as a reminder of how far she’s come. The painting, given during the “lovebombing” phase, depicts her as ethereal and otherworldly—a stark contrast to the reality she faced.
Looking Forward
As Liz prepares to share her story at the Canberra Writers Festival, she hopes to raise awareness about the insidious nature of cults and the importance of understanding their psychological tactics. Her experience serves as a cautionary tale and a testament to the strength of the human spirit in overcoming manipulation and control.
For more on Liz Cameron’s story and her insights into cult psychology, attend the Canberra Writers Festival or read her memoir, Cult Bride: How I Was Brainwashed – and How I Broke Free.
