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South Korean Police Raid Unification Church Amid Bribery Scandal

12/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 15, 2025, South Korean police raided ten Unification Church sites in Seoul, including the international headquarters.
The raids address allegations of illegal payments to government officials tied to church leader Han Hak-ja.
The oceans and fisheries minister resigned, saying the claims are false to protect President Lee Jae-myung's administration.
Han Hak-ja remains on trial for allegedly bribing former first lady Kim Keon-hee.

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Story summary

On December 15, 2025, South Korean police raided ten Unification Church sites in Seoul, including the international headquarters.
The raids address allegations of illegal payments to government officials tied to church leader Han Hak-ja.
The oceans and fisheries minister resigned, saying the claims are false to protect President Lee Jae-myung's administration.
Han Hak-ja remains on trial for allegedly bribing former first lady Kim Keon-hee.