Han Hak-ja Seeks Extension of Detention Suspension
Han Hak-ja, the head of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU), commonly known as the Unification Church, has taken steps to extend the suspension of his detention. He was previously indicted and detained on charges related to violations of the Political Funds Act but was temporarily released under a suspension of detention. Now, he has submitted a formal request to the court to prolong this period.
According to legal sources, Han’s legal team filed a “request to extend the suspension of detention” with the 27th Criminal Division of the Seoul Central District Court on the 6th. The suspension of detention is a court-ordered temporary release of a defendant, typically granted in urgent situations such as the funeral of an immediate family member or a serious medical condition. Unlike bail, it does not require a deposit and takes effect immediately.
Han’s side initially applied for the suspension on the 1st, citing that he suffers from end-stage glaucoma and is scheduled for eye surgery. They stated that the requested period was calculated based on the minimum time necessary for the surgery and recovery. However, the court granted the suspension with specific conditions:
- Han must remain within the hospital premises during the release period.
- He is not allowed to contact anyone other than medical personnel or attorneys wearing identification badges.
- He must avoid discussing the case with others and refrain from fleeing or destroying evidence.
- He must appear in court when summoned.
The initial suspension was set to expire at 4 p.m. on the day it was granted. Now, Han is seeking an extension of this period.
Charges Against Han Hak-ja
Han is accused of colluding with former FFWPU World Headquarters head Yun Young-ho to provide 100 million Korean won in political funds to People Power Party lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong in January 2022. Additionally, he is charged with splitting 144 million Korean won in FFWPU funds for donations to the People Power Party’s metropolitan and provincial offices ahead of the 20th presidential election. These actions are alleged to have violated the Political Funds Act. He was referred to trial last month.
In addition to these charges, Han faces allegations under the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act. He is accused of giving luxury items, including a Graff necklace, to former first lady Kim Keon-hee on two occasions in July 2022. Furthermore, he is charged with embezzlement for diverting FFWPU funds to procure these items.
These allegations highlight the complex legal challenges Han is currently facing, with multiple charges that could significantly impact his future. As the court considers his request for an extension of the suspension, the outcome will likely shape the trajectory of his legal proceedings.