Politics · World News Bureau
Unification Church Leader Sentenced to Prison for Bribing South Korean Official
Han Hak-ja, 83, the leader of the Unification Church, has been convicted of bribery and sentenced to two years in prison. The court found she gave luxury gifts including designer handbags and jewelry to South Korea's former first lady.
LSN World News ·
A South Korean court on Tuesday sentenced Han Hak-ja, the 83-year-old leader of the Unification Church, to two years imprisonment for bribery offences. Han was found guilty of presenting luxury gifts to Kim Keon-hee, wife of former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, in an attempt to secure preferential treatment and influence.
The court determined that Han provided Kim with two Chanel bags and a diamond necklace as part of the illicit arrangement. The conviction marks a significant legal setback for the influential religious organization and its aging leadership.
The Unification Church, often referred to as the "Moonie" movement, has long maintained a significant presence in South Korea despite controversy surrounding its practices and theological teachings. The organization, founded by the late Sun Myung Moon in 1954, has faced repeated scrutiny over financial practices and its influence in political circles.
The sentencing comes amid broader investigations into corruption allegations involving South Korea's political establishment. Han's conviction underscores ongoing efforts by authorities to address bribery cases linked to government officials and prominent institutional figures.