South Korean prosecutors seek arrest of ‘Moonies’ leader in bribery probe

In response to allegations of bribery against a former first lady, South Korean prosecutor’s request for an arrest warrant for Han Hak-ja, the Unification Church’s leader.

The request was made on Thursday, one day after Kim Keon-hee and Kweon Seong-dong were questioned about her alleged involvement in the bribing.

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The accusations come as a result of a search for Kim’s and her husband, former president Yoon Suk-yeol, who was ordered to resign from power last year after enforcing martial law.

According to prosecutor Park Sang-jin, “We have requested an arrest warrant for Han today.” “She is facing charges of embezzlement, conspiracy to defraud, and incitement to destroy evidence,” she says.

We sought the warrant because we thought the risk of Han tampering with the evidence was very high.

The Unification Church criticized Han’s detention, insisting that she doesn’t pose a flight risk or threaten to destroy evidence, and that she has cooperated despite her health issues.

The Unification Church, which was established in 1954 by Han’s late husband, has long drawn controversy and criticism.

Fans are referred to disparagingly as “Moonies” because they still have a cult-like culture. The church organizes mass weddings in accordance with Moon’s role as the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

The church’s activities range from food distribution to media and tourism. Han assumed leadership after Moon passed away in 2012.

In order to win Kim over, Han is suspected of ordering the delivery of expensive presents, including a handbag and a diamond necklace, in 2022 in order to win her husband, who was elected president that year.

Kim was detained and charged with bribery and stock market manipulation last month. The allegations are refuted by her attorneys. Her husband, who is also in custody, is facing a trial for his brief declaration of martial law in December.

Before being overturned by opposition lawmakers, Yoon’s declaration of martial law temporarily suspended civilian rule.

In April, Yoon was impeached and fired from office as a result of the attempt.

Han is also accused of paying Kim Jong-un 100,000,000 won ($72, 000) in bribes.

Kweon was subject to an arrest warrant in Seoul on Tuesday because there was a chance that he might tamper with evidence.

Han, who was detained for almost ten hours on Wednesday, disputed her claims that she was responsible for the alleged bribes and blamed a former church official who has since been detained.