Bribery Trial Opens for South Korea’s Unification Church Leader Han Hak-ja
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The bribery trial of Unification Church leader Han Hak-ja began on Monday in South Korea. Han, 82, is accused of offering luxury gifts, including Chanel handbags, a diamond necklace, and wild ginseng, to former First Lady Kim Keon Hee in exchange for political and business favors. The case is part of a broader probe into ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife following Yoon’s martial law order in December 2024, which triggered widespread political fallout. Han attended the hearing in a wheelchair and wearing a mask, denying wrongdoing and attributing alleged misconduct to a senior church official.
The trial underscores ongoing concerns about the influence of religious organizations in South Korean politics. Prosecutors allege that Han misused donations from church members, turning contributions into a tool for buying political power. The case also highlights broader scrutiny of the Unification Church, known internationally as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, amid repeated allegations of financial improprieties and political meddling both domestically and abroad.
The key figures in the case include Han Hak-ja, the church leadership, former First Lady Kim Keon Hee, and former President Yoon Suk Yeol. Church members and supporters are closely watching the proceedings, while the general public is concerned about corruption and undue influence in politics. Internationally, the Unification Church has faced legal challenges in Japan and other countries, amplifying scrutiny of its finances and practices. Legal authorities and prosecutors aim to determine whether the church systematically leveraged donations for political gain.
The trial is expected to continue over several sessions, with the court examining allegations of bribery, political collusion, and misuse of church funds. Han has requested bail due to health concerns, but she remains in detention. Public interest remains high, with large numbers of people attending the hearings in person or via overflow rooms. The outcome could have significant implications for the church’s leadership, its domestic credibility, and ongoing investigations into political corruption in South Korea.
Content retrieved from: https://moderndiplomacy.eu/2025/12/01/bribery-trial-opens-for-south-koreas-unification-church-leader-han-hak-ja/.
