South Korea has arrested the leader of the controversial Unification Church over allegations the organisation bribed South Korea's former first lady in exchange for business and political favours. Han Hak-ja's church is accused of giving Kim Keon Hee, the wife of ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol, two Chanel bags and a diamond necklace, together worth 80 million won ($57,900; £42,500). Han, the 82-year-old widow of the church's founder Sun Myung Moon, has repeatedly denied the allegations, calling them 'false'. The church stated it would 'faithfully engage' with authorities and strive to restore trust in its operations, while also apologizing for 'causing concern to the people'. Prosecutors sought an arrest warrant for Han on charges of improper solicitation, graft, and embezzlement. In a recent court hearing, Han claimed she has no interest in politics and argued against her arrest, citing her health concerns. She faces additional accusations of colluding with a former church official to offer bribes to a lawmaker ahead of the 2022 presidential election. This controversy has emerged against a backdrop of previous scandals involving political figures tied to the Unification Church, reflecting a turbulent period in South Korean politics.
Controversial Church Leader Arrested Amid Bribery Allegations in South Korea

Controversial Church Leader Arrested Amid Bribery Allegations in South Korea
The leader of the Unification Church, Han Hak-ja, is arrested over claims of bribing the former first lady of South Korea with luxury gifts.
Han Hak-ja, leader of the Unification Church, has been arrested in South Korea for allegedly bribing Kim Keon Hee, the wife of ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol, with luxury gifts totaling approximately $57,900. The church leader denied the allegations, labeling them as false, while she faces multiple charges including improper solicitation and graft. This incident has also brought increased scrutiny to the church and its practices, particularly after previous political scandals involving its members.