South Korean prosecutor Min Joong-ki on 29/12 announced the findings of an investigation into former first lady Kim Keon-hee, wife of former president Yoon Suk-yeol. The investigation accuses Kim of abusing power and severely weakening South Korean institutions. Prosecutor Kim Hyung-geun also alleges illegal behind-the-scenes interference in state affairs by the former first lady.

Former South Korean first lady Kim Keon-hee in Seoul on 12/8. *Reuters*

Prosecutors allege Kim received bribes from businesses and politicians totaling 377,25 million won (over USD 260,000). Among the reported gifts, she allegedly accepted two Chanel handbags and a Graff necklace from a leader of the Unification Church of South Korea. Other items include various luxury jewelry, a painting by renowned South Korean artist Lee Ufan, a Dior handbag, and a wristwatch.

Former president Yoon asserted he was unaware of his wife receiving these gifts, a claim prosecutors deemed "hard to believe".

Earlier this month, prosecutors proposed a 15-year prison sentence for Kim, arguing she "stood above the law" and colluded with the Unification Church to undermine the separation of religion and state. They also requested she pay a fine of 2 billion won (approximately USD 1,4 million).

The former first lady of South Korea denied all accusations. In her final testimony, she described the allegations against her as "unfair", though she admitted to making mistakes given her assigned role and responsibilities.

The Seoul court is expected to announce Kim's sentence on 28/1/2026.

Separately, former president Yoon is also being tried on charges of instigating rebellion. These charges stem from his declaration of martial law a year ago, which plunged the country into political crisis. If convicted, Yoon could face a life sentence or even the death penalty, though he denies wrongdoing. This marks the first time in South Korean history that both a former president and their spouse have been arrested.

Ngoc Anh (According to AFP, Yonhap)