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Unification Church leader Han Hak-ja gets two-year prison sentence

8/31/2026

Summary

Han Hak-ja Sentenced

Seoul Central District Court sentenced Unification Church leader Han Hak-ja to two years in prison.
He gave former first lady Kim Keon-hee a Chanel bag and necklace to seek policy favors.
He transferred 100 million won to former lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong for church favors.
Court upheld Kweon's two-year term, removing him from the National Assembly.

Summary

Han Hak-ja Hospitalized

Han Hak-ja, the church’s “True Mother,” was sent to hospital after sentencing and may stay until Sept 2 for health reasons.
The Unification Church announced it will appeal the verdict, asserting Han did not know about the illegal activities.
The organization claims about 10 million global followers and runs mass-wedding ceremonies worldwide.
After the verdict, Han has been moved repeatedly between detention and hospital for heart issues, fall injuries, and glaucoma treatment.

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Han Hak-ja Sentenced

Seoul Central District Court sentenced Unification Church leader Han Hak-ja to two years in prison.
He gave former first lady Kim Keon-hee a Chanel bag and necklace to seek policy favors.
He transferred 100 million won to former lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong for church favors.
Court upheld Kweon's two-year term, removing him from the National Assembly.

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