Indictment of Kim Keon Hee
Kim Keon Hee, wife of South Korea’s ousted former President Yoon Suk Yeol, has been indicted for bribery and other charges, a special prosecution team announced on Friday. Her case unfolds amid a widening probe into the martial law crisis and multiple scandals tied to the once-powerful couple.
Arrests of Yoon and Kim
Both Yoon and Kim are currently jailed. Yoon is already on trial facing charges including insurrection, linked to his failed attempt to impose martial law in December.
Probes Under New Government
Separate investigations are being conducted by special prosecutors appointed after Yoon’s removal and since liberal President Lee Jae Myung assumed office in June.
Kim’s Response
Following the indictment, Kim issued an apology for causing public concern. She stated she would make “no excuses” and pledged to face trial, adding metaphorically, “Just as moonlight shines brightly in the darkest night, I too will endure this time.”
Scope of Charges
The charges against Kim include stock fraud and bribery, involving business leaders, religious figures, and a prominent political broker. If convicted, she faces years in prison.
History of Scandals
Kim has long been embroiled in controversies, some dating back over 15 years. These scandals overshadowed Yoon’s turbulent presidency and harmed the reputation of his conservative party.
Defense by Lawyers
Kim’s legal team has rejected the allegations, claiming reports of gifts she allegedly received were baseless speculation.
Yoon’s Martial Law Fallout
Yoon’s shock order of martial law in December and its political fallout have also marked Kim’s downfall. Once seen as a wealthy, influential figure behind her husband’s rise, she now faces a dramatic reversal of fortune.
Indictment of Former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo
On the same day, prosecutors indicted former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, appointed by Yoon, on charges of abetting insurrection and perjury. Spokesperson Park Ji-young said Han failed to stop Yoon’s unconstitutional declaration.
Han Duck-soo’s Role and Impeachment
Han, a veteran technocrat who served under five presidents, briefly became acting president after Yoon’s impeachment. He too was impeached for allegedly aiding Yoon in the martial law move, though the Constitutional Court later overturned his impeachment.
End of Han’s Political Career
Despite being restored to office, Han resigned to run in the June election. His presidential ambitions collapsed amid deep conservative divisions, ending his long political career.
