Cyprus Times

Former South Korean First Lady Indicted on Bribery Charges

Published December 29, 2025, 16:07
Former South Korean First Lady Indicted on Bribery Charges

Former South Korean First Lady Kim Keon-hee is facing serious charges of bribery and interference in state affairs. Prosecutors allege that she received luxury goods, including artwork, jewelry, and handbags, worth over $200,000 from businesspeople and politicians. The prosecution argues that Ms. Kim used her influence to affect government matters, bypassing legal procedures. Her husband, former President Yoon Suk-yeol, denied knowledge of these transactions, a claim prosecutors are skeptical of. The case has triggered a significant political crisis in South Korea, marking the first instance of a former president and his wife being indicted and detained for separate criminal cases. Prosecutors have requested a 15-year prison sentence and a fine for Ms. Kim, which she denies. A verdict is expected on January 28th.