Did South Korea's Ruling Party Accept a Special Counsel Probe into the Unification Church?
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Synopsis
In a significant political move, South Korea's ruling Democratic Party has embraced a proposal for a special counsel investigation into the Unification Church amid serious bribery allegations involving past politicians. This investigation could uncover deep-rooted political influences and corruption, making it a crucial development in South Korean politics.
Key Takeaways
- The ruling DP has accepted a proposal for a special counsel investigation into the Unification Church.
- This investigation seeks to uncover potential bribery involving politicians.
- Both ruling and opposition parties are implicated in the allegations.
- Transparency is emphasized by political leaders during this inquiry.
- The outcome may influence future political practices in South Korea.
Seoul, December 22 (NationPress) The ruling Democratic Party (DP) of South Korea has agreed to a proposal from the opposition People Power Party (PPP) regarding a special counsel investigation into the Unification Church following bribery allegations linked to several politicians.
This decision emerged after the PPP and the New Reform Party united in support of a thorough investigation, given that members from both political factions are suspected of receiving funds from the Unification Church in the lead-up to the 2022 presidential election.
DP leader Jung Chung-rae expressed the party's readiness to embrace the opposition's initiative to fully reveal the truth surrounding these allegations.
Echoing this sentiment, DP floor leader Kim Byung-ki called for a special counsel to scrutinize all politicians implicated, irrespective of their party affiliations.
"It’s essential to transparently disclose how the Unification Church has influenced politics during the last presidential election," Kim stated in a meeting with senior party officials.
He emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation into claims of collusion between the church and political entities, illegal political donations, and influence peddling.
In a reciprocal comment, PPP floor leader Song Eon-seog affirmed that the DP has acknowledged the request for a special probe and proposed discussions between the two parties' leaderships, stating that the PPP is committed to advancing these talks.
The presidential office welcomed this initiative, with a senior official stating, "This should provide an opportunity for a meticulous investigation into all parties involved, irrespective of their political standing or rank," as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
The investigation comes in light of allegations that certain DP lawmakers accepted political funding and luxury gifts from the Unification Church, which is concurrently under scrutiny for bribery claims involving PPP lawmakers, as reported by Yonhap.
The police are currently investigating claims that the church provided financial support and luxury items to former Oceans Minister Chun Jae-soo, ex-DP lawmaker Lim Jong-seong, and former United Future Party lawmaker Kim Gyu-hwan from 2018 to 2020.
Additionally, PPP lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong was arrested in September for allegedly accepting illegal political funds from the Unification Church in 2022. The special prosecution team recently pursued a four-year prison sentence for the former PPP floor leader, noted as a close associate of former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol.
Point of View
It is imperative to approach this developing story with a focus on transparency and integrity. The acceptance of a special counsel probe reflects a significant step towards holding all politicians accountable, fostering trust in our democratic processes. This investigation is essential for uncovering the truth and ensuring that political power is exercised without undue influence from religious entities.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Unification Church?
The Unification Church, founded in the 1950s by Sun Myung Moon, is known for its controversial beliefs and practices, including mass weddings and a focus on family values.
Why is there a probe into the Unification Church?
The probe is being conducted due to allegations of bribery involving multiple politicians who may have received funds and gifts from the church.
What impact could this investigation have?
This investigation could lead to greater accountability in politics and potentially reshape the relationship between political entities and religious organizations in South Korea.
