分类： politics

Han Hak-ja, the 82-year-old leader of the controversial Unification Church, has vehemently denied allegations that her organization bribed South Korea’s former first lady, Kim Keon Hee, with luxury gifts in exchange for business favors. The accusations surfaced as Han emerged from a grueling nine-hour interrogation at the prosecutor’s office, where she was questioned about the alleged bribery. Supported by assistants due to her frail health, Han dismissed the claims, stating, ‘No… Why would I do that?’

The former first lady, wife of ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol, is accused of accepting two Chanel bags and a diamond necklace, collectively valued at 80 million won ($57,900), from the church. Kim, who was indicted last month on charges including bribery and stock manipulation, denies all allegations. Her arrest marks a historic moment in South Korea, as it is the first time both a former president and first lady have been jailed.

Yoon, detained in January, faces trial over a failed martial law bid last year that plunged the nation into chaos. Meanwhile, Han shifted blame to a former church official, claiming he acted independently in offering the gifts. The official has since been arrested. Han’s appearance followed her refusal to comply with three prior summonses, citing post-heart surgery pain. An ambulance was reportedly on standby during her interrogation.

In a related development, conservative lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong was arrested on Wednesday for allegedly receiving 100 million won in bribes from the church. Kweon, once a close ally of Yoon, denies the charges.

The Unification Church, formally known as The Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, was founded in the 1950s by Moon Sun-myung, who declared himself the messiah. The church is infamous for its mass weddings, often involving thousands of couples matched by the organization. Critics have labeled it as ‘cult-like,’ with accusations of coercing members, known as ‘Moonies,’ into donating substantial sums.

The church gained international attention following the assassination of Japan’s former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. The alleged assassin blamed the group for his family’s financial ruin and held a grudge against Abe for allegedly promoting the church. The organization is banned in several countries, including Singapore and, more recently, Japan.

In a significant move to strengthen bilateral ties, the European Commission has outlined ambitious plans to deepen cooperation with India across multiple sectors, including defense, technology, and trade. This initiative comes despite ongoing tensions over India’s close relationship with Russia, particularly in light of increased Russian oil purchases by New Delhi following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The European Union and India are now in the final stages of negotiating a free trade agreement, with both parties aiming to conclude the deal by the end of 2025. The negotiations, which were relaunched in 2022, have gained momentum following the re-election of U.S. President Donald Trump, whose tariff policies have prompted both the EU and India to seek new alliances. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas acknowledged the existence of ‘clear areas of disagreement’ but emphasized the bloc’s commitment to avoiding pushing India further into Russia’s sphere of influence. The EU’s vision document released on September 17 highlights plans for collaboration on investment protection, air transport, supply chain security, green hydrogen, decarbonization of heavy industry, and research and innovation. Additionally, the EU envisions a defense and security partnership with India, similar to those already established with Japan and South Korea, and joint projects in third countries, particularly in Africa and South Asia. Despite geopolitical complexities, the EU views India as a key partner in upholding the rules-based multilateral order and anticipates benefiting from India’s projected rise to become the world’s third-largest economy by 2030.

In a comprehensive policy address delivered on September 17, 2025, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee outlined a series of measures aimed at revitalizing the city’s economy, enhancing public welfare, and reinforcing its status as a global hub. Speaking at the Legislative Council, Lee emphasized the government’s commitment to accelerating the development of the Northern Metropolis, a strategic area adjacent to Shenzhen, which is poised to become a new business and residential district accommodating approximately 2.5 million people. This initiative aligns with the broader Greater Bay Area project, which seeks to integrate Hong Kong, Macau, and nine Guangdong cities into a cohesive economic powerhouse. Lee also highlighted plans to establish an international gold trading market, expand the fintech sector, and promote green and sustainable finance. Additionally, the government aims to bolster the aviation industry by developing a sustainable fuel supply chain and attracting pharmaceutical companies to conduct clinical trials and advanced medical treatments in Hong Kong. On the social front, Lee pledged to improve housing conditions, increase worker incomes, enhance elderly care, and provide greater opportunities for young people. He also introduced measures to support pet-friendly businesses and incentivize childbirth through tax allowances. Despite the challenges posed by China’s economic slowdown and ongoing trade tensions with the U.S., Lee reaffirmed Hong Kong’s economic growth forecast of 2% to 3% for 2025, underscoring the city’s resilience and potential as a gateway for mainland enterprises seeking global expansion.