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South Korean Court Weighs Arrest Warrant for Unification Church Leader Han Hakkyo

Prosecutors allege she used 2022 payments to Yoon Suk-yeol’s circle to seek favors for church business.

Overview

  • Han Hakkyo, 82, appeared at the Seoul Central District Court on September 22 for a review of a warrant sought by special prosecutors.
  • Investigators say she conspired with former church official Yun Yong-ho to provide money and luxury items in 2022 to the then-president’s wife and aides, potentially violating the Political Funds Act.
  • Korean media reported that a decision on the warrant was expected by early September 23.
  • If the court issues the warrant, prosecutors plan to arrest and detain Han; if rejected, they are likely to pursue a non-custodial indictment.
  • Han largely denied the allegations during voluntary questioning on September 17, and church leadership has urged members to stay calm while citing concern for her health.