Religious Leaders’ Meeting: Response to Remarks

Korean Family Federation issues its official position on hostile remarks made at religious leaders’ meeting with President Lee Jae-myung on 12th January

A statement issued by the Family Federation in South Korea to the media on 13^th January 2026. Translated from the text on the Korean language website of the Family Federation.

Position of the Korean branch of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification Regarding Certain Remarks Made at a Meeting of Religious Leaders

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With a deep sense of responsibility, the Korean branch of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification hereby states its position regarding certain remarks made in reference to our religious body during a meeting of religious leaders held on 12^th January.

First, matters for which the facts have not been established through judicial proceedings require a cautious approach.

Expressions such as “collusion with political circles” and “consensus on dissolution”, which were mentioned during the meeting, risk oversimplifying or distorting the essence of the investigations and judicial procedures currently underway. In accordance with the freedom of religion and the principle of due process guaranteed by the Constitution of the Republic of Korea, all matters must be judged based on objective evidence and the law. Premature conclusions based on unverified claims only serve to amplify social conflict and hinder the fundamental resolution of issues. Determinations regarding the illegality of a specific organization and any corresponding punishment must be made solely through judicial procedures.

Second, we make it clear that no illegal act can ever be justified in the name of religion.

There has never been any instance in which the religious body, at an organizational level, intervened in elections or instructed illegal lobbying. However, should the investigation confirm that improper conduct by a specific individual did in fact occur, the religious body will not tolerate such actions, will hold those responsible strictly accountable in accordance with its regulations, and will take clear measures to prevent any recurrence.

Third, we will faithfully engage in all legal procedures and fulfill our social responsibility through substantive reform.

The Korean Family Federation is fully cooperating with investigations and inquiries by relevant authorities and is humbly awaiting their outcomes. At the same time, we take seriously the criticisms and concerns that have recently been raised, and we are thoroughly reviewing the overall operation of the organization while progressively implementing substantive reform measures, including institutional improvements. We earnestly request that the media and public discourse maintain a cautious and balanced perspective until judicial conclusions are reached.

Taking this incident as an opportunity for profound reflection, the Korean Family Federation will strive to be reborn as a responsible community that is ever more faithful to the fundamental role of religion and that contributes to peace and mutual coexistence in our society.

13^th January 2026

Korean branch of the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification

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Featured image above: An illustration of statement made by the Korean branch of the Family Federation on 13^th January 2026. Image: ChatGPT 15^th January 2026. Edited

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