‘Moonies’ Church Leader Detained for Alleged Gifts to Former South Korean First Lady

South Korea’s Unification Church leader, Han Hak-ja, has been arrested amid serious allegations of bribery involving the country’s former first lady, Kim Keon Hee. The church is accused of gifting luxury items valued at approximately 80 million won (around $57,900) to Kim in exchange for political favors. Han, the 82-year-old widow of the church’s founder, has denied these claims, labeling them as false. The church has expressed its commitment to cooperating with authorities and restoring public trust.

Allegations and Arrest Details

Han Hak-ja’s arrest follows a series of allegations that the Unification Church engaged in bribery and improper solicitation. Prosecutors have charged her with multiple offenses, including occupational embezzlement. During a court appearance, Han firmly rejected the accusations, asserting that she has no interest in politics and lacks knowledge of the alleged dealings. Her legal team argued against her arrest, citing her advanced age and declining health as factors that should be considered.

In addition to the gifts given to Kim Keon Hee, Han is also implicated in a scheme involving a former church official, surnamed Yun. This official is accused of attempting to bribe conservative lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong with 100 million won ahead of the 2022 presidential election. The bribes were allegedly intended to secure favors for the church if Yoon Suk Yeol won the presidency, which he did. Kweon, who was once a close ally of Yoon, was arrested last week but has denied any wrongdoing.

Church’s Response and Public Impact

In light of the allegations, the Unification Church has publicly stated its intention to cooperate with the investigation. The organization expressed regret for any distress caused to the public and emphasized its commitment to restoring trust. The church has attributed the bribery claims to the actions of the former church official, who has since been arrested. This incident has reignited scrutiny of the church, which has faced criticism for its practices and influence in South Korea.

The implications of this case extend beyond the church itself, as it involves high-profile political figures. Kim Keon Hee was indicted last month on various charges, including bribery and stock manipulation, which she also denies. Her trial commenced this week, marking a significant moment in South Korea’s political landscape, as it is the first time both a former president and first lady have faced legal consequences of this nature.

Historical Context of the Unification Church

The Unification Church, officially known as The Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, was founded in South Korea in the 1950s by Sun Myung Moon, who claimed to be the messiah. The church is widely recognized for its mass wedding ceremonies, where thousands of couples are united, often after being matched by the organization. Critics have labeled the church as “cult-like,” alleging that it coerces its members, colloquially known as “Moonies,” into making substantial financial contributions.

The church has faced significant scrutiny in recent years, particularly following the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The alleged assassin cited grievances against the church, claiming it had financially ruined his family. This incident has led to increased scrutiny of the church’s operations in Japan, where it has been ordered to dissolve, and it faces bans in several countries, including Singapore.

Political Ramifications and Future Developments

The ongoing legal battles involving Han Hak-ja and the Unification Church have broader implications for South Korea’s political environment. Former President Yoon Suk Yeol was detained earlier this year and is currently facing a separate trial related to a failed martial law attempt that resulted in significant political turmoil and his impeachment. The intertwining of religious organizations and political figures raises questions about the influence of such groups in governance and public policy.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the Unification Church’s future remains uncertain. The church’s leadership is under intense scrutiny, and the outcome of these cases could have lasting effects on its reputation and operations. The public’s reaction to these developments will likely shape the church’s standing in South Korea and influence the political landscape as well.

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