South Korean court opens trial of Unification Church leader over alleged bribes to former first lady

Han Hak-ja, the leader of the Unification Church, appeared in court in Seoul on September 22, 2025, as her trial commenced for allegedly paying bribes to the former first lady of South Korea. The 82-year-old leader is accused of offering luxury gifts valued at approximately 50,000 euros to Kim Keon Hee, the wife of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The charges stem from a broader investigation into the church’s financial activities and alleged political influence.

The Unification Church, founded in 1954 by Moon Sun-myung, has long been a subject of controversy due to its unique practices and cultural influence. Han Hak-ja assumed leadership following the death of her founder in 2012. The current trial marks a significant moment in the church’s history, as it faces legal scrutiny over its financial dealings and potential ties to political figures.

According to prosecutors, Han Hak-ja is accused of delivering three luxury items worth about 82 million won (nearly 50,000 euros) to Kim Keon Hee. Additionally, she is charged with paying a bribe of 100 million won (over 60,000 euros) to an influential member of the People’s Power Party (PPP), Kweon Seong-dong, in 2022, to secure the former president’s favor. Han Hak-ja has denied these allegations, stating in a video message to her followers that she had not ordered any illegal political demands or monetary transactions.

Her legal team argued that the gifts were sent by a former church official acting independently and without her knowledge. This defense highlights the complexity of the case, as it raises questions about the extent of Han Hak-ja’s involvement in the alleged misconduct. The prosecution, however, maintains that the church’s funds were used to maintain illegal political ties, suggesting a broader pattern of behavior.

The trial also includes charges of violating the law on political parties, with another proceeding set for December 9. Prosecutors allege that Han Hak-ja requested over 2,000 members of her church to support the PPP, further indicating the potential depth of the church’s political engagement. As the legal proceedings unfold, the case continues to draw attention to the intersection of religious organizations and political influence in South Korea.

Source: Read the original report (translated from French)