Seoul: The ruling Democratic Party (DP) has agreed to a proposal from the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) to initiate a special counsel investigation into bribery allegations involving the Unification Church and multiple politicians. This decision emerged as both the PPP and the minor New Reform Party sought a thorough investigation, as politicians from various parties are suspected of accepting funds from the church in the lead-up to the 2022 presidential election.
According to Yonhap News Agency, DP leader Jung Chung-rae expressed the party's readiness to uncover the truth behind the allegations. DP floor leader Kim Byung-ki supported this stance, advocating for a comprehensive investigation into all politicians involved, regardless of their party affiliation. During a meeting with senior party members, Kim emphasized the importance of revealing the extent of the Unification Church's influence in the last presidential election, focusing on allegations of collusion, illegal political donations, and influence peddling.
In response, PPP floor leader Song Eon-seog acknowledged the DP's acceptance of the proposal for a special probe and suggested discussions between the floor leaders of both parties. The presidential office also welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the necessity of a thorough investigation into these allegations, aiming to uncover the truth and hold accountable those involved, irrespective of their political or religious affiliations.
The investigation comes amidst accusations that some DP lawmakers received political funds and luxury gifts from the Unification Church, which is already under scrutiny for similar allegations involving PPP lawmakers. Police are investigating claims that the church provided funds and gifts to several politicians, including former Oceans Minister Chun Jae-soo, former DP lawmaker Lim Jong-seong, and former United Future Party lawmaker Kim Gyu-hwan, between 2018 and 2020.
In a separate case, 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 sought a four-year prison sentence for Kweon, a known close associate of former President Yoon Suk Yeol.