South Korea Court Sentences Former First Lady to Prison for Bribery

A South Korean court sentenced former first lady Kim Keon Hee to 20 months in prison for accepting Chanel bags and a diamond pendant from Unification Church officials in exchange for political favors. Kim, the wife of ex-President Yoon Suk Yeol, was acquitted on other charges, including stock price manipulation and violations of the political funds act, though prosecutors have indicated they will appeal the not-guilty verdicts.

The Seoul Central District Court also fined Kim 12.8 million won (around $8,990) and ordered confiscation of the diamond pendant. She has been detained since August during the investigation. The lead judge noted that while the first lady holds a symbolic position without formal political power, she must not set a negative example for the public.

Kim’s lawyers stated that she “humbly accepts the court’s stern criticism” and expressed regret for causing public concern. Supporters of the former president and first lady gathered outside the courthouse, celebrating her acquittal on the other charges. The Unification Church said it had not expected anything in return for the gifts, and its leader, Han Hak-ja, who is also on trial, denied attempting to bribe Kim.

The ruling comes amid multiple legal cases connected to Yoon’s brief imposition of martial law in 2024 and other controversies surrounding the former first couple. Yoon faces eight ongoing trials, including charges of insurrection, and has appealed a five-year prison sentence related to obstructing attempts to arrest him after the martial law decree. Prosecutors have also sought the death penalty in a separate case, with a court ruling expected on February 19.

Kim had previously faced public scrutiny over her academic record, alleged stock market manipulation, and associations with a political broker and a shaman, raising concerns about undue influence over the former president.