The spouse of the deposed South Korean leader Yoon Suk Yeol, who was given valuable gifts like a diamond necklace, a Tiffany brooch, and artworks in exchange for favors, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for corruption. Former first lady Kim Keon Hee, found guilty by the Seoul Central District Court, has already been serving a four-year jail term in another case involving gifts from the Unification Church and stock manipulation.
The court emphasized the importance of high ethical standards for a president’s spouse and criticized Kim for exploiting her influence to receive gifts. The judgment also included the confiscation of the gifts, which included luxury items like a Van Cleef & Arpels diamond necklace, a Tiffany brooch, a Dior handbag, a gold turtle sculpture, and a painting by renowned artist Lee Ufan.
Despite admitting to receiving the gifts, Kim denied any connection to favors. Her legal team criticized the verdict as lacking evidence and announced plans to appeal. Yoon, who was removed from office following a brief martial law imposition, is facing multiple trials, including a life sentence for rebellion and a 30-year prison term for ordering drone flights over North Korea.
President Lee Jae Myung, who succeeded Yoon, has initiated investigations into the previous administration’s actions. Kim was indicted for bribery charges involving expensive gifts and favors, resulting in a conviction. The court also sentenced others involved in the bribery scheme. Kim received various gifts from different individuals seeking government support or influence, leading to her conviction.
The court’s decision on the bribery case involving Kim and several individuals was met with mixed reactions. The suspended sentences and fines imposed reflected the severity of the corruption charges.