Unification Church

The Unification Church (Korean: 통일교; RR: Tongil-gyo) is a new religious movement, whose members are called Unificationists or sometimes informally Moonies. It was founded in 1954 by Sun Myung Moon in Seoul, South Korea, as the Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity (HSA-UWC; 세계기독교통일신령협회); in 1994, the organization changed its name to the Family Federation for World Peace and Unification (FFWPU; 세계평화통일가정연합). It has a presence in approximately 100 countries around the world. Its leaders are Moon (prior to his death) and his wife, Hak Ja Han, whom their followers honor with the title "True Parents".

Moon's book, The Divine Principle, informs the beliefs of the Unification Church. Moon considered himself the Second Coming of Christ, claiming to complete the mission Jesus Christ was unable to because of his crucifixion: beginning a new ideal family, and a larger human lineage, free from sin. The Unification Church is well known for its mass weddings, known as Blessing ceremonies. It has been criticized for its teachings and for its social and political influence, with critics calling it a dangerous cult, a political powerhouse and a business empire. The group has been accused of excessive financial exploitation of its members. Its involvement in politics includes anti-communism and support for Korean reunification. Its members have founded, owned and supported related organizations in business, education, politics and more.