Han Hak‑ja’s Bribery Trial Begins in Seoul, Bail Hearing Set for Same Day
Updated (2 articles)
Trial Opens at Seoul Central District Court The Seoul Central District Court convened on Dec 1 2025 for the first hearing of Unification Church leader Han Hak‑ja’s case, charging her with violations of the Political Funds Act and anti‑graft law [1][2]. Prosecutors allege that Han orchestrated illicit benefits for former first lady Kim Keon Hee and lawmaker Kweon Seong‑dong. The hearing proceeded while a crowd of church followers gathered outside the courtroom.
Alleged Luxury Gifts and Money Transfer Prosecutors claim Han provided Kim Keon Hee with a high‑value necklace and Chanel handbags as bribes for business favors after the 2022 presidential election [1][2]. They also assert Han colluded with former church official Yun Young‑ho to funnel 100 million won (≈US$68,000) to MP Kweon Seong‑dong in 2022 in exchange for church‑related advantages [1][2]. Yun’s testimony forms the core of the prosecution’s evidence.
Defense Rejects Testimony‑Based Accusations Han’s legal team argues that the case rests solely on Yun’s statements, which they deem insufficient to prove Han’s involvement [1][2]. Lawyers maintain that Han neither directed nor was aware of the gift preparations, insisting the luxury items were arranged by Yun independently. The defense seeks to discredit the sole witness and demand dismissal of the charges.
Custody Status and Upcoming Bail Hearing After a brief release for eye surgery in November 2025, the court denied an extension and returned Han to detention [1][2]. A separate bail hearing is scheduled for the afternoon of Dec 1, 2025, where the judge will decide whether to keep her in custody pending trial. Special counsel Min Joong‑ki highlighted the seriousness of alleged misuse of church donations for political bribery [1].
Sources
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1.
Yonhap:Trial Opens for Unification Church Leader Over Bribery Allegations: Details the opening hearing, describes the luxury gifts, money transfer, and notes Han’s temporary release and upcoming bail hearing .
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2.
Yonhap:Unification Church Leader Han Hak-ja Begins Trial Over Bribery Allegations: Mirrors the first report, emphasizing the same charges, reliance on Yun’s testimony, and the court’s denial of extended release .
Timeline
2022 – Yoon Suk‑yeol wins the presidential election, after which prosecutors allege that Unification Church leader Han Hak‑ja arranges a luxury necklace and Chanel bags for former first lady Kim Keon Hee and transfers 100 million won to MP Kweon Seong‑dong as bribes for business favors[1][2].
2022 – Han is accused of colluding with former church official Yun Young‑ho to deliver the 100 million‑won payment to Kweon in exchange for church‑related favors, with Yun’s testimony forming the prosecution’s core evidence[1][2].
Nov 2025 – Han receives a brief court‑ordered release to undergo eye surgery; the court later rejects an extension of her release and returns her to custody[1][2].
Dec 1 2025 – Seoul Central District Court holds the first hearing of Han Hak‑ja’s trial; she attends in a wheelchair wearing a black coat while a long line of Unification Church followers gathers outside the courtroom[1][2].
Dec 1 2025 (afternoon) – The court conducts a bail hearing for Han after her temporary release is denied, determining whether she can remain out of custody pending trial[1][2].
Dec 1 2025 – Special counsel Min Joong‑ki emphasizes the gravity of the case, stating that “the church illegally used donations from followers to facilitate the alleged bribery,” highlighting the potential impact on political integrity[1].