Seoul: The independent counsel assigned to investigate corruption allegations involving former first lady Kim Keon Hee announced on Tuesday that it has requested the transfer of cases concerning her from the prosecution, police, and the state anti-corruption investigation agency.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Special Prosecutor Min Joong-ki's team stated in a press release that it has formally sought the transfer of all cases related to Kim from the Supreme Prosecutors Office, the National Office of Investigation, and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) as of Monday. This move indicates Min's team's readiness to assume control over all legal proceedings concerning the former first lady from these three organizations, aiming to commence a comprehensive investigation into her activities.
Kim Keon Hee has been under the scrutiny of the prosecution for her alleged involvement in a stock price manipulation scheme, the purported acceptance of a luxury bag, and suspected interference in election nominations. Meanwhile, police investigations are focused on accusations that the land ministry altered the route of a capital area expressway years ago to benefit Kim's family. Additionally, the CIO has been examining various cases linked to Kim, including the alleged acceptance of a luxury bag.