President Lee Jae Myung calls for investigation into illegal links between politicians and religious groups, with focus on the Unification Church.
SEOUL: President Lee Jae Myung has ordered an investigation into suspected illegal links between politicians and a religious group.
His office stated the probe should apply regardless of a politician’s party affiliation or rank.
The presidential statement did not name the specific religious group involved.
During a cabinet meeting, Lee said he ordered ministers to consider ways to disband groups that meddle in politics with illegal funds.
He also inquired how South Korea’s process for disbanding a religious group differs from Japan’s system.
The president’s spokesperson clarified that Lee had not singled out any particular organisation.
Some politicians, however, believe his comments were directed at the Unification Church.
Its leader, Han Hak-ja, is currently on trial over allegations she bribed former first lady Kim Keon Hee for political favours.
That case is part of broader special prosecutor investigations into ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife.
Han has denied any wrongdoing.
South Korean media reported a former church official told prosecutors that lawmakers in Lee’s own party also received funds.
Police have been asked to investigate any contacts between ruling party members and the Unification Church.
A church spokesperson did not have an immediate comment on Wednesday.
In Japan, a Tokyo court ordered the dissolution of the Unification Church in March, a decision now under appeal. – Reuters
