Investigative Interview at Special Prosecutor's Office for Kim Keon Hee, Ex-First Lady
In a remarkable turn of events, Kim Keon Hee, the wife of the former President Yoon Suk Yeol, faced a public questioning session as a suspect on August 6. The questioning took place at the KT Gwanghwamun West Building in Jongno District, central Seoul.
The event, which was covered by YONHAP, marked a significant moment in South Korea's political landscape as it was the first time a former first lady had appeared in a criminal investigation since her husband was ousted earlier in 2025.
The questioning session was in relation to allegations of corruption, stock manipulation, and bribery. The investigation centres around suspicions that Kim received a luxury Dior handbag and necklace under suspicious circumstances, as well as her involvement in a stock manipulation scheme from 2009 to 2012.
The press was waiting outside the KT Gwanghwamun West Building on August 6, and Kim spoke to the media following the questioning. She publicly apologised for causing concern and pledged her full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
Reports also suggest that an arrest warrant has been sought against Kim Keon Hee for charges including violations of capital market and financial investment laws, as well as political funds laws, indicating the seriousness and progression of the legal proceedings against her.
This investigation underscores the importance of upholding the rule of law and maintaining transparency in South Korea's political sphere. As the investigation continues, the public will be closely watching developments in this high-profile case.
[1] YONHAP News Agency, "Former first lady Kim Keon Hee questioned by prosecutors over corruption, stock manipulation", August 6, 2025. [2] Korea JoongAng Daily, "Former first lady Kim apologizes for causing concern over corruption probe", August 6, 2025. [3] Chosun Ilbo, "Arrest warrant sought for former first lady Kim Keon Hee", August 7, 2025.
- Despite the political shakeup in South Korea, the investigation into Kim Keon Hee, the former first lady, has extended beyond the realm of general-news into crime-and-justice, as she faces charges related to corruption, stock manipulation, and bribery.
- The ongoing investigation into Kim Keon Hee is not only about politics; it has also raised concerns regarding travel restrictions, as international reports suggest that she might face travel bans or sanctions if found guilty of violating capital market and financial investment laws.
