Kim Keon-hee, the former first lady of South Korea, was seen at a Seoul hospital on 19/9, marking her first public appearance since her arrest in August.

Kim, wearing prison attire, a face mask, and glasses, was assisted by a group of people as she moved through the hospital. She was in a wheelchair, wearing an ankle monitor, and had a blanket draped over her hands, seemingly to conceal handcuffs.

Former first lady Kim Keon-hee at a Seoul hospital on 18/9. Photo: MBN

Former first lady Kim Keon-hee at a Seoul hospital on 18/9. Photo: MBN

The former first lady was allowed to visit the hospital after experiencing a sudden drop in blood pressure. Her lawyer reported that she recently suffered from severely low blood pressure, reaching 70/35, resulting in dizziness and near fainting. Blood tests were conducted to determine if hospitalization was necessary.

Kim's lawyer dismissed speculation that she might use her health to delay the trial, stating that she would appear in court "regardless of her health condition." The first hearing is scheduled for 24/9.

Kim faces charges related to a scheme to inflate the stock price of a company between 2009 and 2012. She is also accused of violating anti-corruption laws by accepting luxury gifts and has been embroiled in controversies involving election interference and plagiarism.

Ngoc Anh (Korea Herald, Korea JoongAng Daily)