Seoul: South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Wednesday ordered an investigation into alleged connections between religious groups and political figures, local media reported. This directive comes amid growing concerns over the influence of religious entities on political affairs in the country.

According to Anadolu Agency, the call for investigation followed a referral made by a special counsel to the police regarding suspected ties between the Unification Church and lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Party (DP). President Lee emphasized the need for a comprehensive inquiry into these allegations, highlighting that the probe should be impartial and disregard party affiliations or positions.

A significant development in the case involves a former Unification Church official who is expected to disclose the names of lawmakers purportedly involved in receiving funds from the church. This revelation is anticipated during the official's final trial hearing later on Wednesday. The official, Yun Young-ho, previously served as the head of the church's global headquarters and is embroiled in a corruption scandal linked to the former administration of Yoon Suk Yeol.

The allegations against Yun include accusations of providing luxury gifts to former first lady Kim Keon Hee in 2022, allegedly in exchange for business favors. The unfolding situation has put a spotlight on the intricate relationship between religious organizations and political entities in South Korea, prompting President Lee's decisive action to address the issue.