Unification Church leader sentenced for illegal political funding
Han Hak Ja, 83, leader of the Unification Church, was sentenced to two years in prison after a Seoul court found her guilty of violating political funding laws and bribery for attempts to influence the administration of former president Yoon Suk Yeol. The court imposed one year for a 100 million won payment to lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong and a further year over luxury gifts, including a Chanel handbag and a diamond necklace, given to former first lady Kim Keon Hee. Han denied wrongdoing and the church said it will appeal; Han currently has a temporary suspension of detention on health grounds.
Han Hak Ja was sentenced to two years for illegal political funding.
Context
The case follows investigations linked to a political crisis after a 2024 martial law decision and removal of the president. Courts have already convicted related figures, and appeals are likely. Detention suspension and appeals could…
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