South Korea’s former first lady, Kim Keon Hee, has become one of the most controversial figures in the country’s recent political history, following her conviction on bribery charges and the collapse of her husband’s presidency. Once known primarily as an art patron and businesswoman, Kim’s public image has been reshaped by a long series of scandals that culminated in a 20-month prison sentence, handed down by a Seoul court this week.
Kim, 52, the wife of disgraced former president Yoon Suk Yeol, was found guilty of accepting bribes from figures linked to the controversial Unification Church. The court ruled that she received luxury items worth up to 80 million won, including a diamond necklace and designer handbags, in exchange for business and political favours during the early months of Yoon’s presidency in 2022. While the judge noted that Kim did not directly solicit the bribes and had no serious prior criminal record, he concluded that she had failed to reject improper gifts and had abused her position as the president’s spouse. She was ordered to repay part of the money received and to surrender the diamond necklace.
The ruling cleared Kim of other major allegations, including stock price manipulation involving a BMW dealership and violations of campaign financing laws. However, prosecutors still have two unresolved cases against her, including claims related to political appointments and party activities, meaning her legal troubles may not yet be over.
Kim’s difficulties did not begin with her time as first lady. Before entering the political spotlight, she founded the art exhibition company Covana Contents and cultivated a reputation in cultural circles. Over the years, however, she faced repeated accusations of tax irregularities and exaggerated academic credentials. In 2025, Sookmyung Women’s University annulled her art education degree after finding plagiarism in her master’s thesis, further damaging her credibility.
Public anger intensified in 2023 when covertly filmed footage appeared to show Kim receiving a luxury handbag, raising questions about violations of South Korea’s strict anti-graft laws. The incident deepened scrutiny of her conduct and fuelled broader criticism of the presidential office.
Kim’s conviction follows closely on the sentencing of her husband, who was jailed for abuse of power and obstruction of justice over his failed attempt to impose martial law in 2024. Together, they have become the first former presidential couple in South Korea to be imprisoned at the same time, marking a dramatic and unprecedented fall from power.
Source : BBC News
