South Korean prosecutors revealed investigation results against Kim Kun-hee, former First Lady and wife of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, uncovering evidence of accepting scandalous bribes totaling over 8.2 million baht, including branded luxury bags and precious jewelry, in exchange for abusing power to interfere in state affairs and favoring a notorious cult. They have recommended the court impose a 15-year prison sentence.
South Korean prosecutors summarized the investigation into Kim Kun-hee, the former First Lady, who is accused of accepting massive bribes in money and valuables, as well as improperly interfering in government administration.
The list of luxury bribes and links to the notorious cult uncovered during the investigation shows that Kim received bribes from businessmen and politicians totaling more than 377.25 million won (about 8.2 million baht). The assets identified as received from the Unification Church leader and others included two Chanel bags, a Dior handbag, a necklace from the Graff brand, numerous other luxury jewelry items, wristwatches, and a painting by Lee Ufan, a famous South Korean minimalist artist.
Prosecutor Min Jung-gi stated that the country's core institutions were severely damaged by Kim's abuse of power, as she frequently intervened "behind the scenes" in state affairs to avoid public scrutiny. She was also involved in stock manipulation and interference in parliamentary elections.
Former President Yoon Suk-yeol, currently detained on charges of rebellion following his declaration of martial law last year, denied to investigators that he knew about his wife's bribery. Prosecutors described his denial as "hard to accept."
Initially, prosecutors have proposed that the court sentence Kim to 15 years in prison and impose a fine of 2 billion won (approximately 43 million baht), stating that she acted "above the law" and conspired with the cult group, which constitutes a violation of the constitutional principle separating religion from politics.
Kim Kun-hee, who has been in custody since August, denied all allegations and stated in her closing remarks that the accusations were "extremely unfair." However, she admitted that "considering the role and responsibilities assigned to me, it appears clear that I made several mistakes."
This event marks the first time in South Korean political history that a former president and his wife have been arrested and detained simultaneously. The Seoul court is scheduled to announce the verdict for Kim on 28 January.
/AFP