A major political tremor is shaking South Korea as President Lee Jae Myung has ordered a sweeping investigation into alleged illegal ties between a mysterious religious group and the nation’s politicians. President Lee’s mandate is unequivocal: this probe will leave no stone unturned, applying to “no matter whether ruling or opposition party, a high or low position.” It’s a bold declaration, promising a potential overhaul of the country’s political landscape.
While the President hasn’t publicly named the group, his pointed comments about “disbanding religious groups that meddle in politics and do strange things with illegal funds” have many observers pointing fingers at the Unification Church. Its leader, Han Hak-ja, is already embroiled in controversy, currently on trial over accusations of bribing former First Lady Kim Keon Hee for political favors – claims Han adamantly denies. Adding layers to this unfolding scandal, reports suggest lawmakers from President Lee’s own ruling party may also have received funds from the Unification Church, prompting a separate police inquiry. This situation eerily mirrors events in Japan, where a court recently ordered the Unification Church’s dissolution.
Meanwhile, a stark reminder of global turmoil comes from the Russia-controlled Kherson region of Ukraine. A hospital there tragically suffered shelling, resulting in the deaths of three medical employees and injuries to two others. One seriously injured person remains in intensive care. This incident tragically underscores the devastating human toll of ongoing conflicts.
