The Supreme Prosecutors’ Office in South Korea announced the formation of a joint investigation team comprising prosecutors and police to address bribery allegations involving the Unification Church, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, and politicians. This initiative follows the conclusion of a special counsel’s investigation period that failed to fully uncover the alleged bribery details between the Unification Church and lawmakers from both ruling and opposition parties. The joint team’s scope includes probing not only the Unification Church but also the Shincheonji religious sect and other faith groups to ascertain if they engaged in bribery of politicians and election interference.
Kim Tae-hoon, the head of the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors’ Office, has been appointed to lead the joint team, which consists of 47 prosecutors and police officials. The team will operate from offices located within the Seoul High Prosecutors’ Office and the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office. President Lee Jae Myung advocated for the establishment of a special or joint investigation headquarters to address the scandal, emphasizing the importance of uncovering the truth and ensuring accountability to prevent similar crimes in the future.
Allegations of bribery emerged during an investigation into suspected corruption involving former first lady Kim Keon Hee, resulting in the indictment of Rep. Kweon Seong-dong from the main opposition People Power Party and an inquiry into Rep. Chun Jae-soo from the ruling Democratic Party, among other prominent figures. Despite discussions about appointing a special counsel to investigate the matter, progress has been hindered by disagreements between the opposing political parties.
