A warrant for the arrest of South Korea’s former first lady, Kim Keon-hee, has been issued by the Seoul Central District Court following allegations of graft. Reports indicate that Kim, who denies the accusations, will be taken into custody immediately. This marks a significant moment in South Korean history, as she would become the first former first lady to face arrest, joining her husband, Yoon Suk-yeol, who is currently imprisoned while standing trial for insurrection.
Upon her arrival at the court, Kim bowed but refrained from addressing the media or making any public statements. After the hearing, she was taken to a detention center in Seoul, as per legal protocol, and will remain there pending further proceedings. The charges against her are serious and include stock fraud, bribery, and illegal influence peddling, involving various business owners and political figures.
The prosecution claims that these charges stem in part from an incident where Kim donned a luxury Van Cleef pendant valued at over 60 million won (approximately $A66,200) during a NATO summit in Spain in 2022. This item was reportedly not disclosed in the couple’s financial records, a requirement under South Korean law. Additionally, she faces accusations of receiving two Chanel bags worth 20 million won and a diamond necklace from a religious organization, purportedly as bribes for favorable influence on their business interests.
The prosecution has expressed concerns that Kim may destroy evidence or interfere with ongoing investigations, prompting their request for her arrest. Oh Jeong-hee, a spokesperson for the special prosecutor’s team, stated that in her testimony, Kim claimed the pendant was a fake purchased two decades ago in Hong Kong. However, the prosecution maintains it was a genuine gift from a domestic construction company specifically for her to wear at the summit.
Kim’s legal representatives have not commented on the recent developments but have previously labeled the allegations as unfounded and speculative. As for her husband, former President Yoon is facing trial on charges of insurrection, which could lead to severe penalties, including life imprisonment or the death penalty. He has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has not participated in trial hearings or responded to prosecutors’ inquiries.
As this unprecedented situation unfolds, it highlights the ongoing turbulence within South Korea’s political landscape, underscoring the complexities and consequences of corruption allegations at the highest levels of government.
