In a significant legal development in South Korea, the former first lady, Kim Keon Hee, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for accepting luxury gifts from business figures seeking political and business favors. This decision was made by the Seoul Central District Court, highlighting the ongoing legal issues surrounding the former presidential family.
Kim Keon Hee, wife of ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol, had previously been sentenced to four years in a separate case involving gifts from the Unification Church and a stock price manipulation scheme. According to Judge Jo Soon-pyo, “Given the nature of the position, a president’s spouse must exercise the highest degree of self-restraint and vigilance.” He noted that Kim failed to adhere to this social responsibility by accepting valuable items through her influence.
The court ordered the confiscation of items such as a Van Cleef & Arpels diamond necklace, a Tiffany brooch, and a Dior handbag. Kim Keon Hee, who wore a gray suit and a white face mask during the verdict, has admitted to receiving these gifts but denies any connection to political favors. Her defense team plans to appeal the ruling, citing a lack of substantial evidence.
Yoon Suk Yeol was removed from office in April 2025 following his impeachment related to the imposition of martial law in December 2024. He is currently appealing a life sentence for rebellion and other charges, including ordering drone flights over North Korea.
Since Yoon’s removal, Liberal President Lee Jae Myung has initiated several investigations into Yoon’s administration, focusing on martial law and other allegations involving Kim Keon Hee.
In December, a special prosecutor indicted Kim on bribery charges, including receiving jewelry worth 138 million won ($90,000) from Lee Bong-kwan, chairman of Seohee Construction, in exchange for a government position for Lee’s son-in-law. The court’s ruling found Kim guilty, and Lee received a one-year prison sentence, suspended for two years.
Additional convictions included accepting a luxury watch from businessman Seo Seong-bin, who sought government backing for his robotic dogs business, and gifts from Pastor Choi Jae-yong and others lobbying for government positions. The court imposed suspended sentences and fines on these individuals as part of its rulings.
