South Korean Prosecutors Request Arrest Warrant for Unification Church Leader
South Korean prosecutors have requested an arrest warrant for the leader of the Unification Church, Han Hak-ja, on allegations of bribery linked to a former first lady and incitement to destroy evidence. The move comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the church, which has been criticized for its cult-like culture and mass weddings. Han, 82, has been questioned over her alleged role in bribing former first lady Kim Keon Hee and a prominent lawmaker. The Unification Church has a global following of 10 million and is known for its mass weddings, which critics say are emblematic of its cult-like influence.
Key Takeaways:
- The arrest warrant request is based on charges of violation of the political funds act, anti-graft law, incitement to destroy evidence, and embezzlement.
- Han is suspected of ordering the delivery of luxury gifts to Kim in 2022 to curry favor with her husband, Yoon Suk Yeol, who became president that year.
- The former first lady, Kim Keon Hee, has been arrested and indicted on charges of bribery and stock market manipulation, while her husband is standing trial over his declaration of martial law.
- Han also faces allegations of bribing a prominent MP with 100 million won (US$72,000).
- The Unification Church claims to have 10 million followers worldwide and is known for its mass weddings and cult-like influence.
- The church has denied the allegations, calling the warrant request "unjust persecution of a global religious leader."
Statistics:
- 10 million: The number of followers claimed by the Unification Church worldwide.
- 100 million won (US$72,000): The amount allegedly bribed by Han to a prominent MP.
- 2022: The year in which Han is suspected of ordering the delivery of luxury gifts to Kim and her husband, Yoon Suk Yeol.
- 82: Han's age at the time of the arrest warrant request.
Sources:
- "South Korean prosecutors seek arrest warrant for Unification Church leader" (AFP, doc.afp.com)