From the Blue House to the Dock: Special Prosecutor Confirms Corruption Charges Against Korea’s Former First Lady

In a damning conclusion to a year-long investigation, Special Counsel Min Jung-ki announced on Monday that Kim Keon-hee, the wife of former South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, extensively interfered in state affairs in exchange for bribes and luxury goods. The prosecution alleges that Kim leveraged her position to influence high-level government appointments. While Kim denies all wrongdoing, prosecutors have requested a 15-year prison sentence, with the first court verdict expected on January 28th.

The scandal also implicates Han Hak-ja, leader of the Unification Church, who is accused of providing Kim with Chanel bags and expensive jewelry in exchange for political favors. Meanwhile, former President Yoon faces even graver charges of "insurrection" following his brief imposition of martial law last year—a crime that carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment or death. As the legal battle intensifies, Kim’s defense team maintains that the charges are politically motivated, setting the stage for a historic judicial reckoning in Seoul.