Japan’s Court Takes Bold Action: ‘Moonies’ Church Ordered to Disband Amid Ongoing Controversy

A court in Japan has decided to disband the Unification Church, often referred to as the “Moonies.” This decision comes after the shocking assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022. The alleged killer claimed he was upset with Abe due to the former leader’s ties with the church, which he believed had led to his family’s financial ruin.

Japanese officials, particularly those from the education and culture ministry, accused the church of manipulating members into making large donations. They argue that these contributions were made under duress rather than freely. The church, however, defends itself by stating these donations are part of their religious practice and has the option to appeal the court’s decision.

This ruling from a Tokyo district court also means the church will lose its tax-exempt status and must liquidate its assets. Despite this, it can continue to operate in Japan. During the investigation, authorities interviewed nearly 200 individuals who claimed they were pressured by the church into making expensive purchases, often tied to fears about their spiritual well-being.

The Unification Church was founded in South Korea and has had a presence in Japan since the 1960s. It has faced controversy for its teachings that emphasize marriage as key to spiritual salvation. Notably, the church is famous for its mass wedding ceremonies that involve thousands of couples.

In recent months, around 200 former members have come forward, alleging they were coerced to contribute significantly to the church. They are seeking a total of 5.7 billion yen (approximately $38.5 million) in compensation.

Furthermore, investigations following Abe’s assassination uncovered that many members of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) had connections with the church. An internal review revealed that 179 out of the LDP’s 379 lawmakers had some level of interaction with the Unification Church, with relationships ranging from attending church events to accepting donations and support during elections. This has caused quite a stir in Japan, leading to the resignation of four ministers and raising questions about the influence of this controversial group in politics.

As society continues to debate the balance between religious freedom and manipulation, this case shines a light on larger issues. Understanding the dynamics between politics and controversial religious organizations remains essential for maintaining a healthy democracy. For additional context, a study by Reuter’s Institute reveals that trust in religious institutions has been declining in many parts of the world, including Japan, highlighting a growing skepticism toward organizations that wield significant influence.



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