20/10/2026
On October 13, Dr. Hak Ja Han, leader of the Family Federation (Unification Church), appeared at Seoul High Court for her first appeal hearing, which included a bail examination.
She addressed the court, saying:
“I need to take my medicine, but I cannot do it alone without someone helping me. I cannot do anything by myself.”
“I would be grateful if you could help me live at home while receiving treatment.”
She also said:
“I cannot see letters even up close now. I have spent my whole life working for humanity, peace, and the True Family Movement, yet I have to face this absurd situation. The pain and sadness I feel about having to face this absurd situation is overwhelming.”
At the first-instance bail hearing (Dec 1, 2025), her lawyers argued she is legally blind, 83 years old, and has serious illnesses including arrhythmia and hyperthyroidism.
Legal blindness means that even if she is not completely blind, her vision has deteriorated to the level of severe visual disability under the law.
Typically this means corrected vision of 0.02 or worse in the better eye. At this level, daily life and social activities become extremely difficult, and she qualifies for state disability protections and support.
At the first-instance bail hearing, the court did not grant bail.
Former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said after the first-instance ruling:
“The prison sentence given to Dr. Hak Ja Han is deeply troubling for anyone who values religious freedom. It appears she was targeted for her beliefs. Detaining an elderly woman with health problems for nearly a year betrays South Korea’s democratic values. I pray this case is reconsidered on appeal.”
Dr. Han is currently under a court-ordered suspension of detention for medical treatment and is receiving care in a hospital. This suspension remains in effect until 3 p.m. on Oct 20.
If it is not extended or her bail application is not granted, she will have to remain alone in detention.
Sources: News1, Newsis
