South Korean Prosecutors Seek Arrest of Unification Church Leader Amid Bribery Scandal
In a significant development in South Korea’s political landscape, prosecutors have requested an arrest warrant for Han Hak-ja, the leader of the Unification Church, over allegations of bribery involving former first lady Kim Keon-hee. This request, made public on September 18, 2025, follows a lengthy interrogation of Han, who is accused of orchestrating a scheme to influence political figures through illicit means.
Background of the Allegations
The bribery allegations against Han are part of a broader investigation into Kim and her husband, former President Yoon Suk-yeol. Yoon’s presidency was marred by controversy, culminating in his impeachment and removal from office in April 2024 after a failed attempt to impose martial law. This unprecedented move briefly suspended civilian governance and was met with widespread public outcry and political backlash.
Prosecutor Park Sang-jin announced the warrant request, citing multiple charges against Han, including violations of the political funds act, anti-graft laws, incitement to destroy evidence, and embezzlement. “We considered the risk of Han tampering with evidence to be very high, which led us to seek the warrant,” Park stated.
The Unification Church: A Historical Context
Founded in 1954 by the late Reverend Sun Myung Moon, the Unification Church has long been a subject of controversy in South Korea and beyond. Often referred to disparagingly as “Moonies,” the church is known for its unique theological beliefs, which include the assertion that Moon was the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The organization has also gained notoriety for its mass wedding ceremonies and its extensive business interests, which span various sectors, including media, tourism, and food distribution.
After Moon’s death in 2012, Han assumed leadership of the church, continuing its legacy while also facing scrutiny over its practices and influence. The church’s involvement in political affairs has often raised eyebrows, particularly given its history of alleged financial improprieties and its close ties to conservative political figures in South Korea.
The Bribery Scheme
The allegations against Han suggest a calculated effort to curry favor with the former first lady. Reports indicate that she may have facilitated the delivery of luxury gifts, including a designer handbag and a diamond necklace, to Kim in 2022. This was allegedly done to gain political leverage with Yoon, who was inaugurated as president that same year.
Kim Keon-hee has also found herself embroiled in legal troubles, having been arrested and indicted on charges of bribery and stock market manipulation. Her legal team has vehemently denied these allegations, asserting that the accusations are unfounded. Meanwhile, Yoon remains in custody, facing trial for his controversial martial law declaration.
Political Fallout and Broader Implications
The fallout from these events has been significant, not only for the individuals involved but also for South Korea’s political landscape. The Yoon administration’s rapid decline has raised questions about the integrity of political institutions in the country. The martial law incident, which was quickly overturned by opposition lawmakers, has left a lasting stain on Yoon’s legacy and has fueled public distrust in government officials.
In addition to Han, conservative lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong is also under investigation for his alleged involvement in the bribery scheme. A Seoul court recently issued an arrest warrant for Kweon, citing similar concerns about evidence tampering. The intertwining of political and religious entities in this scandal highlights the complex dynamics at play in South Korea, where the Unification Church has historically wielded considerable influence.
Han’s Defense and Future Proceedings
Following her nearly ten-hour interrogation, Han has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that she did not direct the alleged bribes. Instead, she has pointed fingers at a former church official who has since been arrested, suggesting that the actions were taken without her knowledge or consent. The Unification Church has publicly criticized the prosecutors’ attempts to arrest Han, arguing that she poses no flight risk and has cooperated fully with the investigation despite her health issues.
As the legal proceedings unfold, a Seoul court is expected to review the validity of the arrest warrant request for Han early next week. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications, not only for the individuals involved but also for the Unification Church and its role in South Korean society.
Conclusion
The unfolding bribery scandal involving Han Hak-ja and the Unification Church serves as a stark reminder of the intricate relationship between religion and politics in South Korea. As the nation grapples with the implications of these allegations, the case underscores the need for transparency and accountability in both religious and political institutions. With the legal proceedings set to continue, the public will be watching closely to see how this high-profile case develops and what it means for the future of South Korean governance.
