#None #Unification Church #Religious Freedom #Hak Ja Han

Family Federation Highlights Concerns Over Dr. Hak Ja Han's Treatment

The Family Federation of Europe and the Middle East, commonly known as the Unification Church, has recently voiced significant concerns regarding the treatment of its co-founder, Dr. Hak Ja Han. The incident has drawn international attention, highlighting issues related to religious freedom and human rights in South Korea.

On October 11, 2025, the Federation issued a statement expressing their distress over the accusations leveled against Dr. Han by South Korean authorities. As an octogenarian recovering from heart surgery, she has reportedly been housed in a small cell alone for nearly three weeks. This situation has raised alarms not only about her health but also regarding her legal rights and the adequacy of due process in her case.

Dr. Michael Balcomb, president of the Family Federation, articulated the organization’s stance by asserting, "We believe these accusations are unfounded. Mother Han, known as 'Mother of Peace,' has devoted her life to promoting peace, interreligious harmony, and moral rejuvenation. She deserves justice, dignity, and full respect for her religious freedoms."

While South Korean officials maintain that the legal proceedings are based solely on lawful grounds rather than ideological motives, human rights advocates have expressed skepticism about this narrative. Dr. Massimo Introvigne, a noted expert in religious liberty, commented critically in Bitter Winter, a prominent human rights magazine. “This case transcends individual circumstances; it encapsulates the spirit of a nation. It poses the question of whether South Korea will continue as a democracy that upholds religious freedom or become a regime that punishes faith and criminalizes dissent.”

The Family Federation has called upon compassionate individuals around the globe to unite in solidarity, praying for Dr. Han’s swift release and for the safeguarding of belief freedoms in South Korea. This advocacy emphasizes a growing concern over the rising tensions between governmental actions in South Korea and the rights of religious groups.

The implications of this situation extend beyond Dr. Han herself. The debate raises significant questions about the balance of power between the state and individual liberties, particularly in terms of religious expression. As the situation unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how South Korean authorities respond and whether they will uphold the principles of democracy and human rights.

As calls for justice and fair treatment attract international attention, it is evident that the outcome will have lasting effects on the perception of South Korea's commitment to protecting religious freedoms and their implications for activists and religious communities alike. The global response to Dr. Han’s international appeal reflects a broader concern for human rights and the protection of individuals against potential government overreach and injustice.

In light of these developments, it has become increasingly vital for individuals and organizations invested in human rights to remain vigilant and supportive of those oppressed under legal systems that do not adequately protect their rights. The Family Federation’s resolve emphasizes the urgent need to advocate for essential freedoms and ensures that the voices of those like Dr. Hak Ja Han are heard and respected on a global scale.