Kim Keon Hee Bribery Charges 2025: $263,000 Scandal and State Meddling
Prosecutors demand a 15-year sentence for Kim Keon Hee over $263,000 in bribes and state meddling. Read about the Chanel bags, Dior scandal, and the upcoming Jan 2026 verdict.
She allegedly reigned above the law. South Korean prosecutors have detailed a staggering $263,000 in bribes accepted by Kim Keon Hee, the wife of disgraced former president Yoon Suk Yeol. The case marks a historic low for the nation's leadership, as both the former president and the first lady face detention simultaneously—a first in South Korean history.
Kim Keon Hee Bribery Charges 2025: From Luxury Gifts to State Meddling
According to the prosecution's closing report, the bribes were as lavish as they were varied. Kim reportedly received two Chanel bags and a Graff necklace from the leader of the Unification Church. Other items included a Dior handbag, a luxury wristwatch, and a painting by the renowned minimalist artist Lee Ufan. Prosecutor Min Joong-ki stated that South Korea's institutions were "severely undermined" by these abuses of power.
Beyond the material gains, the focus remains on her alleged illegal intervention in state affairs. Prosecutors claim Kim operated as a shadow power, meddling in parliamentary elections and state decisions beyond public scrutiny. While Yoon Suk Yeol denied knowledge of these transactions, investigators find his claims "difficult to accept" given the scale of the gifts.
Legal Reckoning and the January Verdict
When I consider my role and the responsibilities entrusted to me, it seems clear that I have made many mistakes. Yet, these allegations are deeply unjust.
In a stern move, prosecutors demanded a 15-year prison sentence and a 2 billion won ($1.4 million) fine. This follows the political turmoil of last December when Yoon's brief martial law declaration led to his eventual removal and arrest on insurrection charges. The Seoul court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on January 28, 2026.
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On Dec 29, 2025, Special Counsel Min Joong-ki announced the final results of the Kim Keon Hee investigation, detailing illegal state intervention and 370 million won in bribes. Read the full report.
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Special counsel seeks a 10-year prison sentence for former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol over charges related to his failed martial law bid. First verdict due Jan 16.