In a landmark case that has rocked South Korea's political establishment, prosecutors have formally concluded their investigation into former first lady Kim Keon Hee, accusing her of accepting massive bribes and illegally interfering in state affairs. The findings, announced on Monday, paint a picture of systemic abuse of power at the highest levels of government.
Charges of Bribery and Undue Influence
Chief prosecutor Min Joong-ki stated that the nation's institutions were "severely undermined by abuses of power" by Kim. The investigation alleges that Kim Keon Hee, the wife of disgraced former president Yoon Suk Yeol, accepted bribes totalling 377.25 million won (approximately $263,000) from various businesses and politicians.
Another prosecutor, Kim Hyung-geun, provided a more detailed accusation, alleging that Kim had "illegally intervened in state affairs behind the scenes, beyond the public's view." This intervention reportedly included meddling in parliamentary elections, a serious charge in a democratic nation.
A Trail of Luxury Gifts and Denials
The list of alleged bribes reads like a catalogue of high-end luxury items. Prosecutors detailed that the gifts included:
- Two Chanel handbags and a Graff necklace from the leader of the Unification Church.
- Additional luxury jewellery and a Dior handbag.
- A painting by renowned South Korean minimalist artist Lee Ufan.
- A luxury wristwatch.
These gifts are part of a wider probe that also includes allegations of stock manipulation. Former president Yoon Suk Yeol, when questioned, denied any knowledge of these transactions. Prosecutor Kim Hyung-geun noted that this was "a claim that many find difficult to accept." Kim Keon Hee, who was arrested in August, has denied all charges against her.
Prosecution Seeks Maximum Punishment
Earlier this month, prosecutors took a hard line, seeking a 15-year prison term for the former first lady. They argued in court that she had "stood above the law" and colluded with the Unification Church to undermine the "constitutionally mandated separation of religion and state." In addition to the prison sentence, they requested the court impose a hefty fine of two billion won (about $1.4 million).
In her final testimony, Kim struck a contradictory tone. While maintaining her innocence and calling the allegations "deeply unjust," she also conceded, "Yet when I consider my role and the responsibilities entrusted to me, it seems clear that I have made many mistakes."
Unprecedented Political Turmoil
This case unfolds against a backdrop of intense political chaos in South Korea. The scandal follows former president Yoon Suk Yeol's short-lived declaration of martial law in December of last year, an attempt to suspend civilian rule that ultimately led to his removal from office. He was later arrested this year on insurrection charges, which he denies.
This series of events marks the first time in South Korean history that both a former president and his wife have been detained. A Seoul court is scheduled to deliver its verdict and sentence for Kim Keon Hee on January 28, a date that will be closely watched nationally and internationally.
