Seoul, South Korea — Kim Keon Hee, the wife of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, faces a significant legal setback as a Seoul court has sentenced her to seven years in prison for bribery. This ruling adds another chapter to the troubling legal saga that has been a focal point of public scrutiny surrounding the once influential couple.
The Seoul Central District Court found Kim guilty of multiple charges linked to bribery, concluding that she accepted luxury gifts valued at approximately 300 million won, or about $195,000. In exchange for these gifts, she reportedly used her influence to assist with government appointments and provide business favors. The court dismissed her defense’s key claims, which contended that there was no exchange of gifts for specific benefits.
In delivering the verdict, the three-judge panel criticized Kim for exploiting her position as presidential consort for personal gain. They emphasized that her acceptance of extravagant presents constituted a serious breach of the responsibilities associated with her role. Kim remained composed as she listened to the ruling, dressed in a dark suit and face mask.
Following the judgment, Kim’s legal team expressed intentions to review the case and consider an appeal. This latest ruling comes on the heels of a previous conviction from January, when Kim received a 20-month prison sentence for accepting gifts from officials of the Unification Church, including luxury handbags and a diamond necklace, in exchange for political favors. However, she was acquitted of charges related to stock market manipulation and campaign finance violations due to insufficient evidence.
Prosecutors had initially sought a harsher punishment, proposing a 15-year sentence and financial penalties of 2.9 billion won ($2 million). Kim has consistently denied all allegations against her in both cases.
The gifts from the Unification Church, according to its leadership, were given without any expectation of reciprocation. The church’s leader, Han Hak-ja, is also facing trial and has refuted the suggestion that she directed the organization to bribe Kim.
The legal troubles facing Kim align with a broader sense of decline for the Yoon administration. Yoon, who was ousted from his position through impeachment in late 2024, has been embroiled in multiple ongoing investigations linked to his brief attempt to impose martial law. He is currently navigating eight trials, which include accusations of insurrection.
With Kim’s legal complications stacking up — including the lengthy prison sentence from January and now the seven-year term — the implications for her future remain uncertain. Both Kim and the prosecutors have the option to appeal, which suggests that legal proceedings could continue for a significant period. As the challenges mount, it appears that a resolution may be far from reach for the former first lady.