In a landmark ruling that has captured national attention, South Korea’s former first lady Kim Keon Hee received a 20-month prison sentence Wednesday for accepting extravagant bribes from a religious organization. The Seoul Central District Court convicted the 53-year-old wife of impeached president Yoon Suk Yeol on corruption charges while acquitting her of separate allegations involving stock manipulation and campaign finance violations.
Presiding Judge Woo In-sung delivered the verdict, emphasizing that Kim had exploited her privileged position as presidential spouse for personal enrichment. “One’s position must never become a means of pursuing private gain,” Judge Woo declared during the sentencing hearing, noting her “significant influence” derived from proximity to power.
The prosecution’s case centered on Kim’s acceptance of luxury items from the Unification Church, including a Chanel handbag and Graff necklace, which prosecutors argued undermined constitutional separations between religion and state. Despite requesting a 15-year sentence, prosecutors saw the court impose a considerably shorter term.
Kim maintained her innocence throughout the proceedings, characterizing the allegations as “deeply unjust” during her final testimony last month. Nevertheless, she offered a partial apology for “causing trouble despite being a person of no importance” and acknowledged making “many mistakes” regarding her responsibilities.
The sentencing occurs within a broader political context that has seen both former presidential figures incarcerated. Yoon Suk Yeol currently faces detention related to his controversial imposition of martial law in December 2024 and its turbulent aftermath. This verdict follows recent sentencing of former prime minister Han Duck-soo to 23 years for supporting Yoon’s suspension of civilian rule.
Kim’s legal troubles have consistently overshadowed her public image as an animal welfare advocate who campaigned against dog meat consumption. The 2023 “Dior bag scandal,” involving hidden camera footage of her accepting a $2,200 luxury handbag, significantly damaged the administration’s popularity and contributed to electoral setbacks for Yoon’s party in April 2024.
The investigation has extended beyond political figures, resulting in the arrest of Unification Church leader Han Hak-ja and pending sentencing of lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong for similar bribery allegations involving the religious sect.