Chief Public Relations Officer: 'President Lee Intends to Resolve Collusion Between Religion and Politics This Time... Investigations Will Proceed Regardless of Status or Political Affiliation'

Kyuyoun Lee, Chief Public Relations and Communications Officer at the Office of the President of South Korea, stated that President Lee Jae-myung is determined to address the alleged political sponsorship by the Unification Church and resolve collusion between religion and politics during this opportunity. As investigations and institutional discussions regarding religious involvement in politics begin in earnest, debates are expected to intensify over how strictly the principle of separation of church and state should be applied.
Appearing on the OhmyTV YouTube channel on the 24th, Lee explained, "President Lee Jae-myung believes that now is the time to decisively address the issue of collusion between religion and politics." Regarding the investigation into the Unification Church allegations, he added, "The President has instructed that investigations proceed thoroughly, regardless of status or political affiliation, with no exceptions."
Lee further explained the background of the President’s directive, stating, "A broadcaster reported allegations of bribery involving former Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Jeon Jae-soo, and the very next morning, President Lee personally addressed the issue." He continued, "The President immediately ordered the police to conduct a swift and thorough investigation without any sanctuary."
He also emphasized that the investigation into the Unification Church should serve as an opportunity to sever ties between the political and religious spheres. Lee stated, "I hope this will be a turning point that weakens or breaks the collusion between religion and politics." He added, "Allegations of religious involvement in politics have been raised repeatedly, and I hope the facts will be made clear, appropriate punishment will be administered, and the truth will be revealed."
Regarding calls for the dissolution of religious organizations, Lee maintained a principled stance. He said, "That’s correct. The separation of church and state is enshrined in the Constitution," adding, "This is not simply a matter of law or criminal code, but a very serious issue to be addressed under the Constitution."
west@fnnews.com Seong Seok-woo Reporter