This 23rd (July 17th by the lunar calendar) the 1st memorial service will be held for Reverend Sun Myung Moon, the founder of the Unification Church (Family Federation for World Peace and Unification). There has been much interest in talk of what the "post Sun Myung Moon" era will look like-. Initially it looked as if succession would have been in the hands of the fourth son, Kook Jin Moon (43) in charge of the foundation and group, and the 7th son Hyung Jin Moon(34) who would be in charge of religious aspects. The widow of Reverend Moon, Hak Ja Han (70) was to play a supporting role to the two sons. However, the two top successor, Kook Jin and Hyung Jin did not last long.

Along with the withdrawal of the second generation succession, Reveren Moon quickly reverted to having Dr. Hak Ja Han take over as 'religious leader’ after his passing. Even while Reverend was alive Dr. Han was called 'True Mother' by Unification Church followers. Dr. Han spoke at a New Year's congratulatory ceremony this year saying that “The 2nd generation still need more time. They need to grow more. It goes the same for our sons and daughters. The Unification Church  made a public announcement that "True Mother and Reverend Moon are equal and of the same position in the eyes of God and will accomplish the mission......" 

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■ "Hyung Jin and Kook Jin will have much responsibility in the future" - Unification Church Korea President Chang Shik Yang


Unification Church Korea President Chang Shik Yang is officially the current representative of the Unification Church in Korea. He walked from his hometown in Hampyeong, South Jeolla Province to Seoul to meet Reverend Moon for the first time 43 years ago when he was a high school student. He had responsibilities such as Tongil Group North America Chairman and other major responsibilities. An interview was held with President Yang on the 8th.

- When asked about Rev. Hyung Jin and Mr. Kook Jin.“The rumor that they have left the church is not true. Rev. Hyung Jin Moon is working a World President in America. Chairman Kook Jin Moon still holds his responsibilities in charge of the Segye Ilbo and Executive Director of the Sun Moon University System the Sun Moon University System. And will have many responsibilities in the future as well.”

- What is the focus that the current religious sect leader and actual leader Hak Ja Han has for the Unification Church. 

“As the joint founder of the Family Federation, Reverend Han has powerful leadership and leadership and thrust. Reverend Moon created the Family Federation by combining oriental thought with western religion. Understanding this better than anyone, President han is emphasizing filial piety as the centerpiece in today's family. The which was compiled while Revered Moon was alive was expanded.”

- What role does President Yang have in the Unification Church.

“I am in charge of all working-level matters in in the Korean church as Korean president. I am also helping World President Rev. Hyung Jin Moon as the top vice-president of the World Mission Headquaters in a supportive role for our missions around the world. Also, I am working as President Han's special assistant.”

- How is the lawsuit over the land in Yeoido going?

“That is our source of pain. The land was purchased through donations by all our followers to build a world mission headquarters. The lawsuit is currently in the hands of the supreme court. Members from around the world are still praying that the World Mission Headquarters building can still be built in Yeoido.”

- What kind of person is Dr. Han.

“She has not be the center of media attention in Korea, but she has been active in the women's movement, and relief for the poor and has shown ongoing interest in these areas. In particular, the Women's Federation for World Peace having been established in 1992 has become a global women's movement that has branches in 194 countries. It emphasizes how the logic of feminine and motherly love can be an alternative to the masculine logic of power.”