Prosecutors Accuse Kim Keon-hee

South Korea’s former first lady, Kim Keon-hee, has been accused of accepting over $200,000 in bribes and illegally intervening in state affairs, prosecutors said Monday.

The announcement comes after a yearlong investigation into the brief martial law declaration and other scandals linked to Kim and her husband, former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who was impeached.

Special prosecutor Min Jung-ki stated that Kim:

• Exploited her status as the president’s spouse to receive money and expensive valuables.
• Interfered in various personnel appointments and nominations, undermining South Korea’s institutions.

The total value of alleged bribes, including cash and luxury items, is estimated at 377.25 million won ($263,000).

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Alleged Gifts and Bribes

Prosecutors claim Kim received items such as:

• Chanel and Dior handbags
• A diamond necklace
• Luxury watches
• A painting by Lee Ufan, a prominent South Korean minimalist artist

The investigation also implicated Han Hak-ja, leader of the Unification Church, accused of giving Kim these items to gain influence. Han has denied involvement.

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Legal Proceedings

Kim, who is currently detained, has denied any wrongdoing. Prosecutors are seeking a 15-year prison sentence. A lower court ruling on Kim is expected on January 28, 2026.

Kim’s lawyers criticized the prosecutor’s claims, arguing that the investigation must be proven in court and asserting that the allegations should not be “distorted into political framing.”

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Former President Yoon’s Trial

Former President Yoon Suk-yeol has also been indicted, facing charges of masterminding an insurrection linked to his martial law bid. He has denied all allegations. A lower court ruling on Yoon is expected early in 2026.

Assistant special prosecutor Kim Hyung-geun noted that many individuals approached Kim Keon-hee directly, not the president, giving money and gifts to have their requests fulfilled—a claim some observers say strains credibility.