A South Korean court has sentenced Han Hak-ja, the 83-year-old leader of the Unification Church, to two years in prison following convictions on bribery and political funding violations linked to efforts to influence former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s administration. The Seoul Central District Court handed Han a one-year sentence for illegal political donations and another one-year term for bribery and improper solicitation. Han, who is the widow and successor of the church’s founder, Sun Myung Moon, was not immediately taken into custody due to health reasons, with authorities suspending her detention temporarily.
The case stems from allegations that Han directed church officials to provide luxury gifts—including a diamond necklace and designer handbags valued at around 60 million won ($43,000-$60,000)—to Kim Keon Hee, Yoon’s wife and former first lady. Prosecutors argued these bribes were intended to secure political favor and enhance the church’s influence in South Korean politics and business. Additionally, Han was found guilty of funneling about 100 million won to conservative lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong, an ally of Yoon, ahead of the 2022 presidential election to support Yoon’s campaign.
The court characterized the conduct as an attempt by the Unification Church, formally known as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, to leverage its financial resources for expanding political and religious influence. It noted that while it was unclear whether the church’s requests were ultimately granted, the actions undermined public trust in government policies. Prosecutors had originally sought a 13-year prison sentence for Han, describing the case as emblematic of an unlawful nexus between religion and politics.
Han denied all charges throughout the proceedings, asserting that any illicit actions by church officials occurred without her knowledge or direction. She maintained that she had no personal interest in political power and accused subordinates of acting independently. Her lawyers have stated their intention to appeal the ruling.
The Unification Church issued a statement expressing regret for causing public concern but rejected the court’s findings, insisting it was impossible to accept that Han approved or was aware of the illegal purposes behind the actions. The church had also described the investigation as a violation of religious freedom and blamed the misconduct on individual church officials rather than Han.
This legal case is part of broader investigations triggered by former President Yoon’s removal from office in 2024 following his controversial declaration of martial law. Yoon was later sentenced to life imprisonment for insurrection related to his attempt to impose martial law. Kim Keon Hee also received multiple prison sentences on charges including bribery and stock manipulation, though both have denied wrongdoing.
The Unification Church, founded in 1954 and known for its mass wedding ceremonies and conservative values, has faced increased scrutiny in South Korea and abroad. A related scandal in Japan, where a Tokyo court revoked the church’s tax-exempt status, followed the 2022 assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe by an assailant who cited grievances related to the church’s political ties.
The ongoing investigations and court decisions mark a significant moment in South Korea’s efforts to address alleged corruption at the intersection of politics and religious organisations.