The spouse of deposed South Korean leader Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Keon Hee, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for corruption by the Seoul Central District Court. This ruling is in addition to a previous four-year jail term she is serving for receiving gifts from the Unification Church and involvement in a stock manipulation scheme.

Judge Jo Soon-pyo emphasized the importance of utmost self-restraint and vigilance for the president’s spouse, stating that Kim neglected her social responsibility by accepting valuables to gain favors.

The court has ordered the confiscation of gifts Kim received, including a Van Cleef & Arpels diamond necklace, a Tiffany brooch, a Dior handbag, a gold turtle sculpture, and a painting by Korean artist Lee Ufan.

Kim, who admitted receiving the gifts but denied any connection to favors, listened to the verdict quietly with her head bowed. Her legal team criticized the ruling as being based on insufficient evidence and announced plans to appeal.

Yoon was ousted in April 2025 following a period of martial law in 2024. The former leader faces multiple trials and has appealed life imprisonment for rebellion and a 30-year sentence for ordering drone flights over North Korea.

President Lee Jae Myung, who succeeded Yoon, has initiated investigations into various allegations involving Yoon’s government and his wife. Kim was indicted in December for bribery charges related to receiving gifts in exchange for government favors.

The court found Kim guilty of accepting gifts from several individuals seeking government support for their businesses and programs. Kim was convicted of receiving luxury items from businessmen and officials in exchange for influence and appointments. Seo and Lee Bae-yong received suspended prison sentences, while Choi was fined.

This verdict marks another chapter in the legal challenges faced by Kim and Yoon’s administration, reflecting the ongoing repercussions of their actions during their time in power.