Former first lady jailed 20 months for bribery

Former first lady jailed 20 months for bribery

South Korea’s former first lady, Kim Keon Hee, was sentenced to 20 months in prison for accepting lavish gifts from the cult-like Unification Church, though she was acquitted of stock manipulation and campaign finance violations.

Judge Woo In-sung said Kim had abused her influence as the president’s spouse for personal gain, noting the bribes included a Chanel bag and a Graff necklace. Prosecutors had sought 15 years.

Kim’s sentencing comes amid a broader crackdown on corruption linked to her husband, former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is also in custody for actions during the December 2024 martial law declaration.