Feb 21 • 05:16 UTC 🇰🇷 Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

Unification Church Leader Han Hak-ja, Denied Extension of Suspension of Detention... Returns to Prison Today

Han Hak-ja, the leader of the Unification Church, must return to prison after a court denied her request to extend her suspension of detention due to health reasons.

Han Hak-ja, who has been temporarily released from prison under a suspension of detention, is required to return to prison today following a court's decision to deny her extension request. This decision was made by the Seoul Central District Court on the grounds that her initial release was granted on a conditional basis to address health issues stemming from a fall incident within the detention center. Han had recently sought to continue her suspension due to ongoing health concerns but was turned down by the court.

The suspension of detention was originally granted under conditions related to health, and Han underwent medical treatment while out of prison. However, her request for an extension was denied just days after being conditionally released, indicating a firm stance from the judiciary regarding her case. The court's decision emphasizes the serious nature of the accusations she faces, which include involvement in political funding corruption linked to the Unification Church's alleged ties with government entities.

Han is implicated in a corruption case involving the transfer of political funds to a member of the ruling party in South Korea, which raises significant concerns about the intersection of religion and politics in the country. This situation not only impacts Han's personal circumstances but also sheds light on the broader implications of political donations and governmental support for religious organizations. The court's ruling reflects the ongoing scrutiny of the Unification Church and its operations within South Korea's political landscape.

📡 Similar Coverage