Prosecutors in South Korea pursue arrest of leader from controversial religious group in connection with bribery investigation.
South Korean authorities have taken significant steps in an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption involving Han Hak-ja, the leader of the Unification Church. Prosecutors recently requested an arrest warrant for Han, who is implicated in bribery accusations linked to former first lady Kim Keon-hee and conservative lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong.
The warrant request emerged following a 10-hour interrogation of Han, during which she was questioned about claims she facilitated the delivery of lavish gifts, including a designer handbag and a diamond necklace, to Kim in an attempt to gain favor with her husband, Yoon Suk-yeol, who assumed the presidency in 2022. This legal scrutiny comes on the heels of a broader investigation into Kim and Yoon, who faced significant backlash after imposing martial law last year, which suspended civilian rule and was subsequently repealed.
Prosecutor Park Sang-jin stated, “We have requested an arrest warrant for Han due to the high risk of her tampering with evidence.” The charges against her reportedly include violations of the political funds act, anti-graft laws, incitement to destroy evidence, and embezzlement. Despite these serious allegations, the Unification Church has defended Han, asserting that she does not pose a flight risk and has maintained a cooperative stance throughout the investigation, especially in light of her health issues.
Founded by the late Reverend Moon Sun-myung in 1954, the Unification Church has been the subject of controversy over the years. While it has faced criticism and negative perceptions, the organization continues to have a substantial influence, extending beyond spiritual matters into various sectors, including media, tourism, and food distribution. Han has served as a pivotal figure in furthering the church’s mission and initiatives since taking over leadership after Moon’s passing in 2012.
In a parallel development, Kim Keon-hee was arrested and indicted last month on charges related to bribery and stock market manipulation, to which her legal team has firmly denied the allegations. Furthermore, her husband is currently facing trial for his short-lived martial law declaration that led to widespread political repercussions, culminating in his impeachment and removal from office in April.
As the legal narrative unfolds, Han’s forthcoming court hearing will examine the validity of the arrest warrant request, shaping a chapter filled with political intrigue and high-stakes legal maneuvering in South Korea.
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