Family Federation for World Peace and Unification USA Statement on South Korean Court Sentencing of Dr. Hak Ja Han

NEW YORK, Aug. 31, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Today's decision by the Seoul Central District Court finding Dr. Hak Ja Han guilty of Political Funds Act violation and Improper Solicitation and Graft Act is a deeply painful moment for our American movement, and for countless people around the world who have followed her case with hope and concern. The court has sentenced Dr. Han to two years imprisonment. Her legal representatives have indicated that they will appeal this decision.

Throughout these proceedings, Dr. Han has consistently denied authorizing or participating in any unlawful activity. Her attorneys have maintained that the conduct at issue was undertaken independently by a former church executive without her prior knowledge or approval. Serious questions have been raised regarding testimony, evidence, and aspects of the investigative process. We believe these concerns deserve full and fair examination as the legal process continues.

This moment is not only about a court case. It is about an 83‑year‑old woman, a mother, a great-grandmother, a religious leader, and someone who has spent more than six decades carrying a message of peace and reconciliation around the world. To millions, she is known as the Mother of Peace. She has met with heads of state and faith leaders, crossed boundaries of religion, race, and nationality, and devoted her life to the belief that humanity can find common ground. For months, she has lived in detention, separated from the life and work that have defined her for more than six decades, while her health and future have hung in the balance.

Whatever one's faith, and whatever one may believe about the Family Federation, the human reality of this moment should not be lost. Millions of people around the world who love her, respect her, and have been touched by her work are hurting. We hurt with them, and we will not abandon her.

This case also raises questions that extend far beyond one woman or one religious movement. Due process, individual responsibility, and equal treatment under the law are principles that matter to all people, regardless of religion or belief. A religious leader should be accountable for conduct proven to be their own, just as anyone else should. But leadership itself must never become a substitute for proof of individual criminal conduct. The treatment of minority religions, the distinction between institutional and individual responsibility, and the protection of religious freedom within democratic societies deserve serious examination beyond the outcome of any single case.

Dr. Han's life and legacy will not be defined by a single verdict. For more than six decades, she has traveled the world advocating for peace, stronger families, reconciliation, and cooperation across religious and national boundaries. Those who know her as the Mother of Peace will continue to stand beside her as the legal process moves forward.

Tonight, our thoughts are with Dr. Han, the mother, the great-grandmother. All of us around the world who love and pray for her, we will continue to seek justice, defend religious freedom, and we will stand with her.

About the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification USA

The Family Federation for World Peace and Unification USA is a faith-based organization dedicated to strengthening marriages and families, promoting interfaith cooperation and advancing peace through cooperation across religious, racial and national boundaries.

Media Contact:

Ron Lucas

Irving Street Rep

rlucas@unification.org

Sungmi Holdhus

Family Federation USA

sholdhus@unification.org

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SOURCE Family Federation for World Peace and Unification