Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon's Sarang Jeil Church searched over illegal political funding allegations

South Korean police have launched a forced investigation into Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon and his Sarang Jeil Church, citing suspicions of illegal political funding and embezzlement. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Anti-Corruption Investigation Unit began executing search and seizure warrants at the church on June 25.

The investigation stems from a complaint filed in December by the National Election Commission. The commission accused the Freedom Unification Party, its former leader, and Pastor Jeon of illegally providing and receiving political funds through loans from Sarang Jeil Church. Allegations suggest the church lent about 10.2 billion won (approximately $7.3 million) to the party between 2020 and 2025, with little to no repayment of the principal.

South Korea's Political Funds Act strictly prohibits domestic and foreign corporations and organizations from donating political funds. It also forbids individuals from using corporate or organizational funds for political donations. Violations can lead to imprisonment of up to five years or fines of up to 10 million won.

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Police are investigating Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon and Sarang Jeil Church for alleged illegal political funding and embezzlement.