Kim Keon Hee, wife of South Korea’s jailed former president Yoon Suk Yeol, has been arrested on multiple charges, including stock manipulation, bribery, and political interference. During a four-hour court hearing in Seoul, Kim denied all accusations.
However, the court issued a detention warrant citing concerns that she could destroy evidence if released. Her arrest marks an unprecedented moment in South Korean history, as it is the first time both a former president and a former first lady have been jailed.
Martial Law Scandal and Financial Crimes Intensify Legal Troubles for Former Presidential Couple
Yoon Suk Yeol was detained in January over his alleged attempt to impose martial law the previous year, a move that destabilized the nation and led to his removal from office. His political downfall created a turbulent backdrop against which allegations against his wife continued to attract public and media scrutiny. The combination of both leaders facing criminal proceedings has intensified political tensions in the country.
Prosecutors allege that Kim Keon Hee earned over 800 million won (about $578,000) through a price-rigging scheme involving Deutsch Motors, a BMW dealership in South Korea. While this scheme reportedly occurred before Yoon’s presidency, it remained a point of controversy during his term.
Kim is also accused of accepting two Chanel bags and a diamond necklace from the Unification Church in exchange for business favors, further deepening the legal case against her.
Alleged Political Interference Deepens Corruption Scandal Surrounding Former First Lady Kim Keon Hee
Beyond financial misconduct, Kim faces allegations of interfering in political processes, including influencing candidate nominations during the 2022 parliamentary by-elections and the 2024 general elections.
Her actions allegedly blurred the line between personal influence and political authority, adding another layer of seriousness to the charges. These accusations have fueled opposition claims of corruption at the highest levels of Yoon’s administration.
Appearing in court dressed in black, Kim offered a brief public apology, stating, “I sincerely apologise for causing trouble despite being a person of no importance.” During Yoon’s presidency, he vetoed three opposition-led bills aimed at initiating a special counsel investigation into her alleged misconduct, with his final veto occurring just a week before declaring martial law.
Following his removal from office, a special counsel was appointed in June under the administration of his political rival, President Lee Jae Myung, ensuring that the legal scrutiny into Kim’s activities will continue.
