Seoul: A special counsel team has imposed a fresh travel ban on former first lady Kim Keon Hee as part of its probe into corruption allegations surrounding her, judicial sources said Wednesday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the investigation team, led by special prosecutor Min Joong-ki, implemented the travel restriction after receiving the case last month from the prosecution, which had already prohibited Kim from leaving the country. The investigation focuses on 16 allegations against Kim, including her alleged involvement in a stock price manipulation scheme, acceptance of a luxury bag, and suspected interference in election nominations.
Min's team officially launched the probe Wednesday with a signboard-unveiling ceremony at its office in central Seoul. The team plans to take over case records on the alleged influence-peddling case related to election nominations at the main opposition People Power Party from the police Thursday.
Earlier in the day, another special counsel, led by special prosecutor Lee Myeong-hyeon, began an official investigation into suspicions that the then government, including Yoon, attempted to cover up the truth behind the death of a Marine during a search for torrential rain victims in July 2023.
By law, the special counsel probe into Kim can last up to 110 days, including 20 days of preparation that have already lapsed, and can be extended twice by 30 days each time. The investigation into the Marine's death has a duration of up to 80 days, including 20 days of preparation, and can be extended to a maximum of 140 days.
"We will conduct all investigations in a manner that isn't excessive or biased," Min stated at the ceremony. "We will do our best to provide proper answers to various suspicions by combining our strengths and pooling our wisdom."
Lee also expressed commitment to the investigation, stating, "We will do our best to thoroughly determine the actual truth."
These investigations are part of the broader efforts by three special counsel teams appointed by President Lee Jae Myung after his recent inauguration. Another team, led by Cho Eun-suk, has already begun its investigation into Yoon's failed martial law bid.