Unification Church Leader Sentenced for Political Bribery

Han Hak-ja, the leader of the Unification Church, has been sentenced to two years in prison following a bribery scandal involving South Korea's former first lady, Kim Keon Hee. The Seoul court determined that Han's church provided Kim with luxury gifts, including two Chanel bags and a diamond necklace valued at 80 million won (approximately $57,900).

This case marks a significant moment in the investigation of the church's influence in South Korean politics, as prosecutors disclosed evidence of $19 million in cash found in Han's safe. Earlier this year, Kim was given a 20-month jail term for accepting these gifts in exchange for political favors.

Despite the verdict, Han, the 83-year-old widow of church founder Sun Myung Moon, has consistently denied the allegations, labeling them as unfounded. Kim, for her part, acknowledged receiving the luxury items but claimed she returned them without using them, expressing remorse for her actions in a public apology last August.

Source: www.bbc.co.uk