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Han Hak-ja, leader of the controversial Unification Church, has strongly refuted claims that her church gave luxury presents to South Korea's former president's wife in exchange for political favors.

When confronted by journalists following an extended session of interrogation at the prosecutor's office, she flatly rejected the allegations, stating, "No... Why would I engage in such acts?"

Ex- presidential spouse Kim Keon Hee, spouse of ousted Leader Yoon Suk Yeol, is accused of receiving a pair of designer handbags and a diamond necklace worth £42,500.

Kim was formally charged recently on several counts, including graft and securities fraud, all of which she denies.

The detention marked the initial instance in the country that both a ex-leader and ex-first spouse have been detained.

Yoon was taken into custody in early this year to stand trial over a failed emergency rule attempt previously that threw the nation into chaos.

On Wednesday, Han attributed the incident to a ex- member, stating that the individual acted on his own when providing gifts to Kim. The official has since been taken into custody.

Her appearance followed refusing three summons from the special prosecutor. She explained, "I was in discomfort following cardiac operation."

An ambulance was made available during her questioning, according to reports.

Also on Wednesday, officials detained conservative lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong, who is alleged to have accepting 100 million won in improper payments from the church. Kweon, previously seen as a trusted ally of Yoon, denied the allegation.

The Unification Church, also called The Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, was established in the country in the mid-twentieth century by Moon Sun-myung, who declared himself the savior.

It is recognized for holding large-scale marriage ceremonies with thousands of couples, some of whom may have only just been paired by the church.

Critics have labeled the organization as "cult-like". Legal representatives have alleged it of pressuring devotees, referred to as "Moonies" after its founder, to donate large sums of money.

The Unification Church received widespread attention in the country following the killing of former leader Shinzo Abe. The accused individual blamed the organization for financially ruining his family and expressed resentment toward Abe for reportedly supporting it.

It is banned in several nations, such as the city-state and Japan.