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Han Hak-ja Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Bribery and Political Influence

A Seoul court has sentenced Han Hak-ja, the leader of the Unification Church, to two years in prison for bribery charges. The 83-year-old religious leader was found guilty of providing luxury gifts, including two Chanel handbags and a diamond necklace, to South Korea's former first lady, Kim Keon Hee, in exchange for business and political favors. While Han had previously denied the allegations, the court confirmed the church's attempt to buy political influence. Prosecutors had initially sought a 13-year sentence for Han, but the sentence was reduced after she was acquitted of embezzlement charges involving over $7 million in church funds. The church, formally known as the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, has maintained extensive ties to the Republican Party and the Trump administration. President Trump has delivered several speeches for the church's front group, receiving payments for his appearances. The conviction comes as South Korea's former president, Yoon Suk Yeol, also faces legal consequences following a failed bid to declare martial law. Kim Keon Hee, who received a 20-month prison term earlier this year, admitted to receiving the gifts but stated she returned them without using them.

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