Key Developments in South Korea’s Political and Religious Landscape
A major legal development has unfolded in South Korea, involving the leader of a prominent religious organization and high-profile political figures. The arrest of Hak Ja Han, the 82-year-old head of the Unification Church, marks a significant moment in ongoing investigations into alleged corruption linked to former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s administration.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
Hak Ja Han, the widow of the church’s founder, Sun Myung Moon, was arrested early Tuesday after a court approved an arrest warrant. The decision came following allegations that the Unification Church bribed the wife of the former president, Kim Keon Hee, and a conservative lawmaker. The court cited concerns about evidence being destroyed as a reason for the arrest.
Han did not comment publicly upon her arrival at the Seoul Central District Court for a hearing on the warrant. After several hours of deliberation, the court issued its ruling, leading to her detention near Seoul. This development underscores the gravity of the charges against her and the church.
Church’s Response and Public Reaction
The Unification Church expressed strong disapproval of the arrest, highlighting that Han had appeared for questioning just days prior while recovering from a recent heart procedure. The church accused investigators of showing disrespect to an “internationally respected religious leader.”
This response reflects the broader tensions between the religious organization and law enforcement, which have been escalating in recent months. The church, known for its global outreach and mass wedding ceremonies, has long maintained a complex relationship with the South Korean government.
Political Implications
The arrest is part of a larger investigation into the former president’s administration. Kim Keon Hee, the wife of Yoon Suk Yeol, was arrested last month on charges including bribery and stock manipulation. She is also under scrutiny for alleged involvement in the selection of a legislative candidate.
The conservative lawmaker, Kweon Seong-dong, who is closely aligned with Yoon, was also arrested last week. He has denied any wrongdoing, but investigators are examining claims that Unification Church members supported his candidacy during the 2023 leadership race.
Broader Investigations
The case against Kim is one of three special prosecutor probes launched by the new liberal government targeting Yoon’s presidency. Other investigations focus on the brief imposition of martial law in December and the alleged cover-up of a marine’s drowning during a flood rescue operation in 2023.
Yoon’s martial law lasted only a few hours before the legislature voted to lift it. He was later impeached and removed from office in April. Re-arrested in July, he now faces charges including rebellion and other serious offenses.
Background on the Unification Church
Founded in 1954 by Sun Myung Moon, the Unification Church, officially known as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, has grown into a global movement. Moon, a self-proclaimed messiah, promoted new interpretations of the Bible and conservative family values. The church is known for its mass weddings, which often involve couples from different countries.
The organization has faced criticism over the years for its controversial practices and business ventures. However, it continues to maintain a significant presence in South Korea and beyond.
Ongoing Legal Battles
Hak Ja Han was questioned for nearly 10 hours last week and denied the allegations against her. She and the church have maintained that the arrested church official, Yoon Young-ho, acted independently and exceeded his authority.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case highlights the intersection of religion, politics, and corruption in South Korea. The outcome of these investigations could have far-reaching implications for both the Unification Church and the country’s political landscape.
