Unification Church Leader Arrested in South Korea Over Bribery Allegations Involving Former First Lady Kim Keon Hee

Unification Church Leader Arrested Amid Bribery Scandal in South Korea

Han Hak-ja, the leader of the Unification Church, was arrested in South Korea on September 23, 2025, amidst allegations of bribery involving the country's former first lady and a prominent lawmaker. The arrest has deepened the political crisis in South Korea and intensified scrutiny on the church’s political ties.

Key Points of the Arrest

• Han Hak-ja was arrested for alleged bribery involving Kim Keon-hee, South Korea's former first lady, and a lawmaker.
• Prosecutors accuse Han of orchestrating bribes, including luxury gifts and cash, to secure political favors before the 2022 presidential election.
• The Seoul Central District Court approved Han's detention due to concerns about evidence destruction, rejecting health-based objections from her legal team.

Details of the Bribery Allegations

Han Hak-ja, 82, is accused of directing church officials to bribe Kim Keon-hee, the wife of ousted President Yoon Suk-yeol, and Kweon Seong-dong, a conservative lawmaker, with luxury gifts and cash. Prosecutors allege that Han conspired to provide Kim with two Chanel bags and a diamond necklace worth 80 million won (about $57,900) and offered Kweon 100 million won (roughly $71,800) ahead of the 2022 presidential election. The alleged aim was to secure business and political favors for the church.

Denials and Church Response

Han has repeatedly denied the charges, insisting, "I have neither interest in nor knowledge about politics." The Unification Church, officially known as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, expressed regret for “causing concern to the people” and promised to “faithfully engage” with authorities. The church also sought to distance Han from the actions of the arrested official, Yun Yong-ho, suggesting he “acted independently.”

The Unification Church: History and Controversy

For followers, who refer to Han as “True Mother,” the arrest is a significant shock. Han is the widow of Sun Myung Moon, the founder of the Unification Church, who died in 2012. Founded in 1954, the church has faced controversy for its mass wedding ceremonies, conservative teachings, and perceived cult-like practices. Moon proclaimed himself the messiah and built a global movement, with the church controlling significant business interests.

Wider Political Scandal

The scandal has implicated much of South Korea’s political elite. Kim Keon-hee was arrested last month and faces charges of bribery, stock market manipulation, and interference in National Assembly candidate selection. Kweon Seong-dong has also been arrested and denies any wrongdoing. The case marks the first time in South Korean history that both a former president and first lady have been jailed at the same time.

The Fall of Yoon Suk-yeol

The probe into Han and the church is one of three major cases launched by a special prosecutor, all focused on Yoon Suk-yeol’s presidency. Another case examines Yoon’s attempt to declare a state of emergency on December 3, 2024, which led to his impeachment in December and his formal removal from office in April 2025. He was re-arrested in July and now faces charges of insurrection and other offenses.

The Church's Influence and Future

Critics have long accused the Unification Church of coercing followers to make large donations and participate in arranged marriages. The current investigation has revealed how the church’s reach may have influenced political outcomes and business deals. The simultaneous downfall of a president, first lady, and the leader of a major religious movement is unprecedented, and the outcome of these cases could shape the country’s approach to church-state relations for years to come.