A former first lady of South Korea, Kim Keon Hee, has been sentenced to one year and eight months in prison for accepting Chanel bags and a diamond pendant from Unification Church officials in exchange for political favors. The court acquitted Kim of stock price manipulation and violating the political funds act but prosecutors plan to appeal these decisions.
The verdict is part of a series of trials stemming from investigations into Kim’s husband, former president Yoon Suk Yeol, who was removed from office last year following a brief imposition of martial law in 2024. The court clarified that while the first lady does not hold formal power in state affairs, she serves as a symbolic figure for the country.
The court also fined Kim 12.8 million won (approximately $12,155 Cdn) and ordered the confiscation of the diamond necklace. Kim, who has been in detention since August, denied all charges and her lawyer is considering an appeal against the bribery conviction.
Yoon Suk Yeol, the former president, is facing multiple trials, including charges of insurrection, following his attempt to impose martial law. He has appealed a five-year jail term and faces a potential death penalty for allegedly orchestrating an insurrection, with a ruling expected on February 19.
Yoon defended his decision to declare martial law, claiming it was necessary to address government obstruction by opposition parties. Supporters of Yoon and Kim celebrated the not-guilty verdicts on some charges outside the courtroom.
The Unification Church denied any wrongdoing, stating that the gifts to Kim were given without any expectations. The church’s leader, Han Hak-ja, is also facing trial in connection with the case.