Prosecutors have requested a 13-year prison sentence for a high-ranking Unification Church official, identified as Han, who is accused of bribery and colluding with the current administration. The request was made to the court on July 10th.
Allegations of Bribery and Influence
The Seoul Central District Court held a sentencing hearing for Han and several former Unification Church executives, including Jung Won-joo, former head of the church’s planning office, and Yoon Young-ho, former head of the World Peace Federation. Prosecutors argued that Han was the ultimate decision-maker in matters related to the Unification Church and the primary beneficiary of the alleged bribery scheme.
Specifically, the prosecution requested five years imprisonment for violations of the Political Funds Act and an additional eight years for other offenses. For Jung, a 10-year sentence was sought. For Yoon, a sentence of three years and six months was requested. Yoon’s spouse, identified as Im, who managed the church’s finances, was also requested to receive a three-year sentence.
Role of Former Executives
Prosecutors stated that Jung, as Han’s closest aide, significantly influenced key decisions and actively participated in raising slush funds for Han. The prosecution characterized the case as a serious offense where a religious organization interfered with the nation’s constitutional order and undermined state affairs, urging for severe penalties to prevent future occurrences.
The indictment alleges that Han, in collaboration with Jung and Yoon, delivered 100 million won (approximately $75,000 USD) in political funds to Kwon Seong-dong, a member of the People Power Party, in January 2022, seeking support for the Unification Church from the then-upcoming Yoon Suk-yeol administration. This action is considered a violation of the Political Funds Act.
Further accusations include the distribution of 144 million won (approximately $108,000 USD) from the Unification Church’s funds to People Power Party lawmakers and others in March and April of the same year, also a violation of the Political Funds Act. Additionally, Han is accused of instructing Yoon to deliver luxury goods, including a Chanel bag and a pearl necklace, to Kim Keon-hee, the First Lady, in July 2022, which constitutes a violation of the Anti-Graft Act.
Sentencing Considerations
Yoon, who faces separate charges for accepting bribes, is being tried for the alleged funneling of funds to People Power Party lawmakers. Regarding Yoon’s role, prosecutors acknowledged that while she sought to expand her influence within the Unification Church, her actions were carried out under Han’s direction, warranting consideration.
Im, who is facing charges for receiving orders related to illegal fundraising, was noted for her significant role in managing her husband Yoon’s finances and her overall influence. However, prosecutors took into account her sincere attitude during the investigation and her compliance with instructions.
Background of the Case
The Unification Church, officially known as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, has been under scrutiny for its financial dealings and alleged political influence. This case highlights concerns about the intersection of religious organizations, political funding, and potential corruption.
The prosecution emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that the alleged actions by the religious group disrupted the constitutional order and mocked national governance. They called for strict penalties to ensure such violations do not happen again.
The court is expected to deliver its verdict on the requested sentences at a later date.
