Japan's Economic Revitalization Minister is stepping down after a series of revelations about his links to the former Unification Church.

Sources say Yamagiwa Daishiro met the group's current leader, Han Hak-ja, three years ago, and posed for a photo.

Yamagiwa confirmed that he was in the picture, but said he did not remember it being taken. He also attended meetings organized by the group.

Yamagiwa said, "I made my explanations after third parties pointed it out. As a result, I think the follow-up has caused trouble for the administration."

Opposition parties repeatedly called on Prime Minister Kishida Fumio to dismiss Yamagiwa.

Japan's government is planning to investigate the religious group, which is controversial for its fundraising tactics.

In August, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party ordered its members to sever all ties with the group and its affiliates.

Prime Minister Kishida Fumio said, "Minister Yamagiwa told me that he does not want to hinder the ongoing Diet deliberations. So I accepted his offer to resign."

Kishida said that he will announce the replacement to his cabinet on Tuesday.