Han Hak-ja, the 83-year-old leader of the Unification Church, has been sentenced to two years in prison in South Korea for bribery and political funding offenses. A court found that the church, led by Han as the widow of founder Sun Myung Moon, provided gifts valued at approximately $57,900 to Kim Keon Hee, the former first lady and wife of ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol. These gifts included two Chanel bags and a diamond necklace.
Earlier this year, Kim Keon Hee received a 20-month jail sentence for accepting bribes from the church. Prosecutors stated that the probe marked the first time authorities confirmed the church's attempts to buy political influence. During the investigation, authorities reportedly found $19 million in cash in Han's personal safe.
Kim Keon Hee admitted to receiving the Chanel bags but maintained they were later returned without being used. She issued a public apology last August, expressing regret for causing public concern.
The Unification Church, formally known as The Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, was established in South Korea in the 1950s. The organization is recognized for its mass wedding ceremonies. Critics have labeled the group as "cult-like," with lawyers accusing it of coercing members, colloquially referred to as "Moonies," into making substantial financial donations. The term "Moonies" is used by critics and is considered offensive by many church members.
The Unification Church gained international attention following the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The alleged assassin reportedly blamed the group for his family's financial ruin and held a grievance against Abe for his alleged support of the organization.
The church has reported extensive connections with politicians in Seoul, Tokyo, and Washington. In 2021, political figures, including former U.S. President Donald Trump, former U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, and Shinzo Abe, sent video messages to a church event. The mayors of Seoul and Busan also participated.
The organization faces bans in some countries, including Singapore, and has been ordered to dissolve in Japan. Han Hak-ja has denied the allegations against her, calling them "false."