Full Breakdown
Arrest of Unification Church Leader Han Hak-ja Amid Bribery Allegations
9/23/2025, 5:45:18 AM
Overview of the Arrest
Han Hak-ja, the 82-year-old leader of South Korea's Unification Church, was arrested on September 23, 2025, following a court's approval of an arrest warrant related to allegations of bribery involving former First Lady Kim Keon Hee and a prominent lawmaker. The Seoul Central District Court justified the warrant by citing concerns that Han posed a risk of tampering with evidence. Han is accused of orchestrating the delivery of luxury gifts, including a designer handbag and a diamond necklace, to Kim in 2022 to gain favors for the church from her husband, Yoon Suk Yeol, who was elected president that same year.
Background of the Unification Church
Founded in 1954 by Moon Sun-myung, who claimed to be the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, the Unification Church, officially known as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, has been a source of controversy due to its cult-like culture and extensive business interests across various sectors, including media, healthcare, and construction. The church is known for its mass weddings, where thousands of couples are married in large ceremonies. Han took over leadership of the church after her husband's death in 2012.
Allegations and Investigations
The allegations against Han include directing church officials to bribe Kim and Kweon Seong-dong, a lawmaker from the conservative People Power Party, with 100 million won (approximately $72,400). Kim is currently facing her own trial for corruption, including charges of bribery and stock manipulation. Both she and Yoon have denied the allegations against them. The investigation into the former first couple is part of a broader inquiry initiated by special prosecutors following Yoon's impeachment in April 2025 for a failed martial law declaration.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the arrest, the Unification Church expressed its commitment to cooperating with the ongoing investigation, stating, "We humbly accept the court's decision... and will do our utmost to restore trust in our church." The church criticized the warrant as an "unjust persecution of a global religious leader," emphasizing that Han had previously appeared for questioning while recovering from a heart procedure.
Criticism & Opposition
The political implications of the case have drawn criticism from various quarters. Members of the ruling Democratic Party have called for the dissolution of the People Power Party if the bribery allegations are substantiated. Hwang Myeong-seon, a lawmaker from the Democratic Party, stated, "Political groups that parasitise on religious power no longer have the right to exist." Former conservative politician Hong Jun-pyo also condemned the party's ties to the church, likening it to a political entity dominated by "pseudo-religious cult leaders."
What's Next
As the investigation unfolds, Han is expected to remain in custody while the court proceedings against her and the former first lady continue. Kim is scheduled to attend her trial, which is set to address the corruption charges stemming from her time as First Lady. The implications of these cases may further impact South Korea's political landscape, particularly concerning the relationship between religious organizations and political entities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We will faithfully cooperate with the upcoming investigation and trial procedures to verify the truth, and do our utmost to use this as an opportunity to restore trust in our church,” — Unification Church Statement
- “Why would I have done that?” — Han Hak-ja, responding to bribery allegations.
