South Korea on Wednesday opened a criminal trial for Kim Keon Hee, wife of impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol, making history as the first ex-first lady to face trial.
Her husband was removed from office after attempting to declare martial law.
Kim was arrested in August on charges including stock manipulation and corruption. Escorted by guards, she appeared at the Seoul Central District Court dressed in a dark suit with her hair tied back, wearing a badge with inmate number 4398.
The trial began with formalities as the court confirmed her identity and occupation. Kim answered briefly, “I am unemployed.” She also gave her date of birth and declined to seek a jury trial.
Her case means South Korea now has both a former president and a former first lady simultaneously facing criminal proceedings.
Kim has long been under scrutiny for her alleged involvement in stock manipulation. Public criticism resurfaced in 2022 after a pastor filmed himself handing her a Dior handbag, which she appeared to accept.
She also faces accusations of interfering in the nomination process for parliamentary candidates in Yoon’s party, a violation of election laws.
Legal analysts believe the proceedings could summon the couple together over their alleged influence on parliamentary elections. Yoon, while president, vetoed three special investigation bills aimed at probing the allegations against Kim, with his last veto coming in late November, just a week before he declared martial law.
What you should know
Kim Keon Hee, South Korea’s former first lady, now faces trial over corruption and stock manipulation, a historic first for the country.
Her husband, ex-president Yoon Suk Yeol, is also battling criminal proceedings after his failed martial law attempt. The couple’s cases symbolize deepening political and legal turmoil in South Korea.
