South Korea's Rival Parties Agree to Special Probe into Unification Church Bribery Scandal

In a rare moment of unity, bipartisan agreement paves the way for a sweeping investigation into alleged political corruption.

SEOUL, December 22, 2025 – South Korea's ruling and opposition parties have agreed to launch a special counsel investigation into bribery allegations surrounding the Unification Church and its suspected ties to numerous politicians. The ruling Democratic Party (DP) on Monday accepted a proposal from the main opposition People Power Party (PPP), signaling a bipartisan push to probe claims that politicians from both sides received illicit funds from the church ahead of the 2022 presidential election.

The decision came after the PPP and the minor New Reform Party agreed to push for the probe, as suspicions mounted over the church's influence. "Let's clearly reveal how the Unification Church interfered in politics in the last presidential election," DP floor leader Kim Byung-ki said during a party meeting. He called for an investigation into all politicians involved, regardless of party affiliation, to thoroughly examine allegations of collusion, illegal donations, and influence peddling.

"It should offer an opportunity to conduct a thorough investigation into those involved, regardless of whether they belong to the ruling or opposition parties, or their rank and status."

The move was welcomed across the political spectrum. PPP floor leader Song Eon-seog confirmed his party would move forward with discussions. The presidential office also voiced its support. A senior official told Yonhap News Agency it's necessary to "uncover the full truth behind the broad allegations of collusion between politics and religion... and punish those involved."

With the agreement in place, the focus now shifts to negotiations between the parties over the specific terms of the special counsel bill, which will define the scope, duration, and authority of the upcoming investigation.