Moonies Church Leader Han Hak-ja Jailed Two Years for Bribery Offences

Han Hak-ja, the 83-year-old leader of the Unification Church, often referred to as the 'Moonies', has been sentenced to two years in prison by a South Korean court. The conviction stems from bribery offences involving the provision of luxury goods to a former first lady of South Korea.

Court proceedings established that Ms Han presented the former first lady with two Chanel handbags and a diamond necklace. These gifts were deemed illegal inducements, leading to the bribery conviction.

The Unification Church, founded by Sun Myung Moon, has faced ongoing scrutiny regarding its financial practices and political influence. This ruling highlights persistent concerns over illicit connections between religious organisations and political figures within South Korea's establishment.