Rep. Kwon Seong-dong Appears in Court for First Hearing on 'Unification Church Illegal Funds' Case

Kwon Seong-dong, a lawmaker from the People Power Party, appeared at the Seoul Central District Court on November 3, 2025, for his first hearing on charges of receiving illegal political funds from the Unification Church. Kwon is accused of receiving ₩100 million in illegal political funds from Yun Yeong-ho, former head of the Unification Church's world headquarters, in January 2022, ahead of the 20th National Assembly elections, in exchange for favors.

Arriving at the courthouse in Seoul's Seocho-gu that morning, Kwon faced reporters but did not answer any questions about the allegations. He entered the courtroom with a stern expression.

The special prosecutor's team indicted Kwon on charges of violating the Political Funds Act. The special prosecution believes Kwon received the illegal funds in return for resolving grievances related to the Unification Church and has been conducting an investigation. They suspect a quid pro quo between Kwon and Yun.

When the judge asked Kwon his occupation, he replied curtly, "Member of the National Assembly." He remained silent when asked if he admitted to the charges. He listened to an explanation of the trial procedures with his lawyer.

It is alleged that in January 2022, ahead of the 20th National Assembly elections, Kwon received a request from Yun Yeong-ho, then head of the Unification Church, regarding pending issues related to the Unification Church. At the time, the Unification Church reportedly requested Kwon to pass a specific bill. The bill is known to be related to the Unification Church foundation.

The special prosecution believes Kwon received ₩100 million in illegal political funds from Yun in exchange for the request. The special prosecution is also investigating the possibility that Kwon used the funds for election purposes. They are focusing on tracing the use of the funds.

The political arena is closely watching the impact of this case on next year's general election. Both the ruling and opposition parties are monitoring the progress of the case and exploring future responses.

Kwon is expected to reveal his specific position on the allegations in court. Kwon's lawyer said, "We will reveal all the truth during the trial process." The lawyer stated that they would focus on proving Kwon's innocence.

Relevant evidence will be presented during the trial. The special prosecution is expected to submit records of phone calls and financial transactions between Kwon and Yun as evidence. In addition, the special prosecution is working to secure testimonies from those involved.

The future trial schedule has not yet been determined, and the court plans to clarify the facts through additional hearings. The court will clarify the whole story of the case through witness questioning. Unification Church officials, including former head Yun Yeong-ho, are mentioned as potential witnesses.

Kwon's side denies the allegations, saying that the special prosecution's claims are "different from the truth." Kwon's side is arguing that it was "part of legitimate political activities." Kwon's side is expected to provide a concrete explanation of the background of the funds received.

This case is expected to have a significant impact not only on Kwon's political career but also on the People Power Party. The People Power Party has stated that it is "closely watching" the case. The party leadership is carefully reviewing future responses.

There are concerns that Kwon's alleged receipt of illegal political funds could deepen distrust of the entire political arena. Citizens are calling for a thorough investigation and punishment in this case.