South Korea’s Former First Lady Accused of Accepting Lavish Bribes
Prosecutors in South Korea announced Monday that former first lady Kim Keon Hee allegedly accepted bribes worth more than $200,000, including fine art, luxury jewelry, and designer handbags, while also unlawfully interfering in government affairs.
Kim, the wife of disgraced ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol, was arrested in August and faces charges related to stock manipulation and receiving illicit gifts from members of the Unification Church, a controversial religious group. She also stands accused of influencing parliamentary elections.
Lead prosecutor Min Joong-ki said the investigation revealed that South Korea’s institutions were “severely undermined by abuses of power” tied to Kim’s actions. Another prosecutor, Kim Hyung-geun, added that she had “intervened in state affairs behind the scenes, beyond public view.” According to investigators, the total bribes Kim received from business and political figures amounted to 377.25 million won ($263,000).
Among the alleged gifts were two Chanel handbags, a Graff necklace, additional luxury jewelry, a painting by minimalist artist Lee Ufan, a Dior purse, and a wristwatch.
Former president Yoon has denied any knowledge of his wife’s dealings, though prosecutors suggested his claims were “difficult to believe.” In early December, prosecutors sought a 15-year prison sentence and a two-billion-won fine ($1.4 million), arguing that Kim had “placed herself above the law” and collaborated with the Unification Church to undermine South Korea’s constitutionally mandated separation of religion and state.
Kim has denied all charges, describing the accusations as “deeply unjust.” However, in her final testimony, she admitted, “When I reflect on my role and the responsibilities entrusted to me, it seems clear that I have made many mistakes.”
Yoon, meanwhile, was removed from office last year after attempting to impose martial law, a move that triggered nationwide unrest. He was later arrested on insurrection charges, marking the first time in South Korean history that both a former president and first lady have been detained.
A Seoul court is scheduled to deliver Kim’s sentence on January 28.