Kim Keon Hee, the wife of South Korea’s ousted former President Yoon Suk Yeol, has been indicted on charges of bribery and other crimes by a special prosecution team. The indictment comes amid a deepening probe into the nation’s political turmoil, including the martial law crisis that led to her husband’s removal from office. Both Yoon and Kim have been arrested and are currently in jail, with Yoon already on trial for insurrection.
Following the indictment, Kim expressed remorse for the public concern she caused, stating she would face trial and “make no excuses.” This marks the first time in South Korean history that both a former president and a former first lady have been jailed.
Corruption Allegations and a Political Downfall
The charges against Kim Keon Hee are wide-ranging and carry serious penalties. She is accused of manipulating stocks between 2010 and 2012, reportedly earning more than 580,000 dollars in unfair profits. Additionally, prosecutors allege that Kim accepted bribes from an official at the Unification Church, including two Chanel bags and a diamond necklace, in exchange for her influence in helping the church’s business interests.
These high-profile scandals, some dating back over 15 years, have long overshadowed her husband’s presidency and contributed to his political downfall. Kim, a wealthy businesswoman, was once considered a key driver behind Yoon’s political rise, but her legal troubles have now become central to the nation’s political upheaval.
Former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo Indicted for Aiding Insurrection
In a related development, special prosecutors also indicted former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo on charges of abetting insurrection and committing perjury. Han, who was appointed by Yoon, served as acting president after Yoon’s impeachment. The indictment alleges that Han, as the country’s highest constitutional authority, failed to prevent Yoon’s “unconstitutional, illegitimate martial law.”
While Han has denied these accusations, prosecutors claim he provided procedural legitimacy to the martial law declaration. The ongoing investigations into both Kim and Han signify a concerted effort by the new government to hold the former administration accountable for the recent political crisis.
