Former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s wife has been sentenced to seven years in prison for corruption by the Seoul Central District Court. Kim Keon Hee, the ex-first lady, was found guilty of accepting a diamond necklace, a Tiffany brooch, and other luxury gifts in exchange for favors. This ruling adds to her previous four-year jail term for accepting gifts from the Unification Church and involvement in a stock price manipulation scheme.
Judge Jo Soon-pyo emphasized the importance of restraint and vigilance for a president’s spouse, stating that Kim neglected her social responsibility by leveraging her influence to receive valuables for favors. The court ordered the confiscation of gifts, including a Van Cleef & Arpels diamond necklace, a Dior handbag, and artworks by renowned artists.
Kim, who admitted to receiving the gifts but denied any wrongdoing, listened quietly to the verdict while wearing a gray suit and a face mask. Her legal team criticized the verdict as based on insufficient evidence and announced plans to appeal.
Yoon, the former president, was removed from office in April 2025 after being impeached for imposing martial law in December 2024, leading to confrontations with the liberal opposition. His successor, President Lee Jae Myung, has initiated investigations into Yoon’s actions and his wife’s involvement in various allegations.
Kim was indicted for bribery charges, including receiving expensive jewelry in exchange for government favors. The court also convicted individuals who offered gifts to Kim, such as luxury watches and paintings. Suspended prison sentences and fines were imposed on some of the individuals involved in the corruption scandal.
