Seoul: Former first lady Kim Keon Hee, wife of the impeached and detained former President Yoon Suk Yeol, has undergone nearly 11 hours of questioning by a special counsel concerning corruption charges. This event marked an unprecedented moment in contemporary Korean democracy, as former first ladies have typically not been questioned so publicly. Kim addressed the press and stood for photos on her way to the special prosecutors' office, offering an apology for causing public concern.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim referred to herself as a "nobody" and expressed regret for any distress caused. This incident bore a striking resemblance to a situation in December 2021 when her husband was in a tight presidential race with Lee Jae Myung. Concerns about her falsified academic degrees and involvement in Deutsch Motors stock manipulation from 2009 had previously surfaced. At that time, she publicly vowed to review her past actions and adhere to public standards while supporting her husband's role as president.
The special counsel has requested an arrest warrant for Kim, indicating the seriousness of the investigation. This comes after the country endured six months of political chaos under the former president. The probe highlights the necessity of uncovering truths to ensure justice and equality under the law.
The investigation is one of three independent probes approved by the National Assembly, focusing on unresolved allegations. Kim faces 16 charges, including stock manipulation related to Deutsch Motors and alleged interference in political party nominations. Additionally, she is under scrutiny for potentially failing to disclose financial assets, notably when wearing a Van Cleef pendant valued at 60 million won during the 2022 NATO summit, which she claims was a fake. Allegations also include receiving luxury gifts from a religious group possibly in exchange for support on overseas projects.
Kim has cooperated with the investigation, refraining from invoking her right to silence. The public recalls her previous investigation during her husband's presidency regarding the Deutsch Motors scandal, from which she was cleared. Public dissatisfaction arose over her being questioned in a separate facility. The current investigation aims to dispel doubts about preferential treatment due to her former status.
Investigators are tasked with thoroughly examining any gaps and overlooked facts to assure the public of the equal application of laws and access to justice in Korea.