Unification Church leader Han Hak-ja jailed two years
AM730 · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A South Korean court has sentenced Han Hak-ja, the 83-year-old leader of the Unification Church, to two years in prison in a case tied to alleged bribery of former first lady Kim Keon-hee. Prosecutors said luxury items were delivered in 2022 through an intermediary to secure political and commercial benefits for the church. Han denied the charges in court, while prosecutors had sought a far heavier sentence of 13 years. The ruling adds to scrutiny of alleged links between the church and the administration of former president Yoon Suk-yeol
Key Points
- The Seoul Central District Court sentenced Han Hak-ja to two years' imprisonment over a case involving alleged bribery of Kim Keon-hee
- Han, aged 83, is the widow of Unification Church founder Sun Myung Moon and is described as the church's current leader.
- Prosecutors said that between April and July 2022, two Chanel handbags and a diamond necklace worth about 80 million won were provided
- CRHK reported prosecutors alleged that in July 2022, a luxury necklace and branded handbag were sent through an intermediary for church interests
- Prosecutors also said Han's safe contained US$19 million in cash, while Kim Keon-hee was earlier fined and sentenced to 20 months for bribery
Why It Matters
The case keeps attention on how religious organizations may seek access and influence through political connections, an issue that resonates across Asian democracies. For Hong Kong readers, it is a reminder that allegations involving elite networks, money and influence can quickly become wider questions about institutional trust and accountability.