Archive · 29 Dec 2025
South Korea's Former First Lady Accused of Bribery
The former First Lady of South Korea, Kim Keon Hee, is accused of taking money and expensive gifts in exchange for helping people with important jobs.
She is also accused of using her position to influence decisions.
The special prosecutor said she received these gifts and money from different people who wanted favors.
Kim has said she did nothing wrong.
Another person, Han Hak-ja, who leads a religious group, is also accused of giving Kim these gifts.
The former President, Yoon Suk Yeol, is also on trial for serious charges related to imposing martial law.
Both Kim and Han have denied the accusations.
The court will decide Kim's case on January 28, and Yoon's trial will continue into 2026.
Kim Keon Hee, former First Lady of South Korea, accused of accepting bribes and interfering in state affairs.
Special prosecutor alleges Kim received money and expensive valuables in exchange for influence.
Kim denied any wrongdoing and apologized to the public for causing concerns.
Unification Church leader Han Hak-ja indicted for allegedly giving Kim valuables to gain influence.
Former President Yoon Suk Yeol on trial for suspected masterminding of an insurrection.
- Who
- Kim Keon Hee, former First Lady of South Korea, and Unification Church leader Han Hak-ja
- What
- Accusations of bribery and interference in state affairs
- When
- Investigations concluded on Sunday, trial for Kim on January 28, trial for Yoon in early 2026
- Where
- South Korea
- Why
- Allegations of receiving money and valuables in exchange for influence and personnel appointments
- Accused Individual
- Kim Keon Hee
- Charges
- Acceptance of bribes, interference in state affairs
- Sentence Sought
- 15-year prison sentence
- Trial Date for Kim
- January 28
- Co-Accused
- Unification Church leader Han Hak-ja
- Charges Against Yoon
- Masterminding an insurrection
- Trial Date for Yoon
- Early 2026
