Kim Keon Hee, the former first lady and wife of ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol, has been arrested in a wide-ranging probe into alleged bribery, stock manipulation, and political interference.
The Seoul Central District Court approved her arrest late Tuesday at the request of a special prosecutor, citing fears she might destroy evidence. Kim, who made no comment to reporters, is being held in a detention facility in southern Seoul, separate from her husband. She will face further questioning on Thursday and could be detained for up to 20 days before formal charges are filed.
Her arrest is historic, it is the first time in South Korea that both a former president and first lady have been jailed at the same time. Yoon, removed from office in April, was rearrested last month over his failed attempt to impose martial law in December 2024.
Special Prosecutor Min Joong-ki’s investigation is examining several allegations against Kim, including:
Pressuring the People Power Party to nominate a preferred candidate in a 2022 legislative by-election, reportedly at the request of an election broker.
Accepting luxury gifts, possibly through an intermediary linked to the Unification Church.
Participating in a stock price manipulation scheme connected to a BMW dealership.
Earlier this week, investigators arrested one of Kim’s close associates, accused of using his relationship with her to secure millions in investments. They also raided a construction company suspected of buying her a $43,000 luxury necklace — which Kim claims was fake.
During his presidency, Yoon blocked all attempts to investigate his wife, dismissing the claims as politically motivated. But after his impeachment and removal, new liberal President Lee Jae Myung authorized three special investigations — into Yoon’s martial law order, the allegations against Kim, and the alleged cover-up of a marine’s death during a 2023 flood rescue.
Yoon’s martial law decree lasted only hours before lawmakers overturned it, breaking through military blockades. Now back behind bars, he faces rebellion charges and continues to refuse questioning about his wife’s case.
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