Investigations revealed the church's alleged coercive tactics, prompting interviews with nearly 200 self-identified victims seeking compensation totaling 5.7 billion yen ($38.5 million). The Unification Church, founded in South Korea in the 1960s by Sun Myung Moon, has faced criticism for its controversial teachings, including mass wedding ceremonies. The connections between the church and members of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, which surfaced after Abe's assassination, unveiled a worrying extent of influence and interactions, prompting political fallout, including resignations from several ministers. The widespread revelations surrounding the church and its impact on Japanese society have ignited discussions on transparency and accountability within religious organizations.
Japan Court Orders Dissolution of Controversial Unification Church
Japan Court Orders Dissolution of Controversial Unification Church
A major ruling in Japan has ordered the disbandment of the Unification Church amid scrutiny over its operations and connections to a high-profile murder case.
The Tokyo district court has mandated the dissolution of the Unification Church, frequently referred to as the "Moonies", following the controversial murder of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022, linked to the church's activities. The court's decision came after Japan's education and culture ministry raised concerns about the church's practices of soliciting substantial donations from its followers, often through manipulative means. Although the church can appeal the ruling, its tax-exempt status will be revoked, and it must liquidate its assets, though it remains permitted to operate in Japan.
