Trial starts for head of former Unification ChurchーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts:

• Unification Church (formerly)
• Han Haka (leader)
• Political Fund Law violation
• Illegal political donations
• 2022 South Korean presidential election
• Former President Yun Sonoru
• Kim Goni (Yun's wife)
• Abe Shinzō assassination
• Political influence
• Succession struggle

Trial of Han Haka Begins in Seoul

The trial of Han Haka, the leader of the religious group formerly known as the Unification Church, commenced on Monday at the Seoul Central District Court. Han and a former senior official of the group are accused of violating the political fund law. Specifically, they allegedly conspired to provide illegal funds amounting to 100 million Korean Won (approximately $68,000 USD) to a political heavyweight prior to South Korea's 2022 presidential election. This political figure was reportedly close to former President Yun Sonoru. Additionally, Han faces charges for gifting luxury bags to Yun's wife, Kim Goni.

Defense Denies Charges and Prosecution's Opening Statement

Han Haka's defense team has vehemently denied all charges against her. During the initial hearing, Han appeared in a wheelchair and responded to basic questions from the presiding judge. While she did not address the indictment directly in the morning session, she was observed conversing with her lawyer during the prosecution's opening statement.

Witness Examination and Key Arguments

The afternoon session focused on witness examinations, with a former senior member of the group testifying. Prosecutors highlighted the increased difficulty in transferring funds from Japan to South Korea following the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzō in 2022, a point acknowledged as true by a subordinate of a former senior group member. The special prosecution team suspects the group attempted to influence those close to former President Yun to expand its political reach.

The core of the trial revolves around the prosecution's belief that Han Haka ordered the series of incidents aimed at approaching former President Yun to enhance the group's political standing. Conversely, Han's legal team argues that these actions were initiated by a former senior official of the group acting independently, without instructions from Han. Future hearings will scrutinize the evidence presented to prove Han's alleged orders and the methods employed by the religious group in carrying out these actions.

Group's Activities and Future Prospects

In Japan, the group's past practices, such as compelling followers to make substantial donations, are viewed critically. The transcript raises questions about whether Han's trial will alter the group's ongoing activities, with the group reportedly continuing its operations under Han's leadership. It has been observed that the group is urging followers to maintain faith in the "innocence of the holy mother," and some believers have publicly proclaimed her innocence outside the detention center.

Experts suggest that the group's future has become uncertain following Han's arrest and the commencement of her trial. Should Han be found guilty, it could trigger a struggle for succession, potentially impacting the group's trajectory, which has a global following across South Korea, Japan, and other regions.

Conclusion

The trial of Han Haka marks a significant legal proceeding with implications for the religious group formerly known as the Unification Church. The case centers on allegations of illegal political funding and attempts to gain political influence, with the defense contesting the charges. The outcome hinges on the strength of evidence proving Han's alleged directives and the group's operational methods, while the group itself appears to be maintaining its structure and appealing to its followers for support amidst the legal challenges. The potential for a succession struggle adds another layer of uncertainty to the group's future.