South Korea commenced a criminal trial on Wednesday for Kim Keon Hee, the wife of impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol. This marks a historic moment as it is the first time an ex-first lady has faced trial in the country.
Kim was arrested in August on multiple charges, including stock manipulation and corruption. She appeared at the Seoul Central District Court, escorted by guards, dressed in a dark suit with her hair tied back. Notably, she wore a badge displaying her inmate number: 4398.
The trial began with the court confirming her identity and occupation, to which she responded, “I am unemployed.” She provided her date of birth and opted not to request a jury trial.
This case is significant as it sees both a former president and a former first lady undergoing criminal proceedings simultaneously. Kim has faced extensive scrutiny over her alleged involvement in stock manipulation, a matter that reignited public criticism in 2022 when a left-wing pastor filmed himself presenting her with a Dior handbag, which she appeared to accept.
Additionally, Kim is accused of interfering in the nomination process for members of parliament in Yoon’s party, violating election laws. Legal experts suggest that the trial could lead to the former presidential couple being summoned together regarding their alleged influence on parliamentary elections.
During his presidency, Yoon vetoed three special investigation bills passed by the opposition-controlled parliament aimed at probing the allegations against Kim, with the last veto occurring in late November. Shortly after, Yoon declared martial law.
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