Japan launched a probe into the Unification Church on Tuesday that could threaten its legal status, after the assassination of former prime minister Shinzo Abe in July revealed its close ties to the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and triggered a public backlash.
For the church, founded in South Korea in 1954 and relying on its Japan followers as a key source of income, the probe could deliver a severe financial blow, affecting its tax exemptions and even its property holdings.
The stakes are high for Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's government, teetering on an approval rate of just 30 per cent and eager to quell the uproar over links to the church, which forced the resignation of a minister.
"For Kishida, it's clear that this is a huge drag on him. He's going to be linked to the Unification Church issue no matter what," said North Carolina State University's Associate Professor Levi McLaughlin, who is studying religion in Japan.
This story is from the November 23, 2022 edition of The Straits Times.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 23, 2022 edition of The Straits Times.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Five charged over Liam Payne's death
An Argentine judge argued that the manager of former One Direction singer Liam Payne and employees of the hotel where he was staying failed the pop star in the moments before his death, and allowed charges against them to proceed, according to a statement from the prosecutor's office on Dec. 30.
Conclave reveals the hidden power of women in the Vatican
In a Vatican filled with powerful men in crimson robes, it is a silent woman in a black habit who holds one of the most strategic positions during the selection of a new Pope.
Jeju Air crash South Korean entertainment activities on hold
Several K-pop artistes and entertainment companies have postponed or cancelled promotions and year-end events following the tragic Jeju Air plane crash at Muan International Airport on Dec 29.
Hollywood's Year of the Cougar
Nicole Kidman's Babygirl is the latest of several age-gap romances pairing A-list actresses with much younger men
Can brain games prevent dementia?
Evidence shows an association between brain training activities and improved cognitive abilities, but not a direct cause and effect
Alcohol Deaths in US More Than Doubled in Two Decades: Study
The number of deaths caused by alcohol-related diseases more than doubled among Americans between 1999 and 2020, according to new research.
Worse Than Binge Drinking
High-intensity drinking is defined as eight or more drinks in a row for women, and 10 or more for men
25 to watch in 2025
Fans will have plenty to look forward to in the new year with young guns eyeing sporting greatness and established stars hoping to add to their legacies. The Straits Times lists the athletes and teams to keep an eye on over the next I2 months.
Why you should take up a hobby
Hobbies can help you become happier and healthier. Here are tips on choosing the right one
Chelsea get reality check on 'special night' for Ipswich
Enzo Maresca admitted Chelsea should not think about challenging for the English Premier League title after lowly Ipswich Town beat the Blues 2-0 at Portman Road on Dec 30.
