South Korea: Did the ex-first lady truly apologize for causing concern during her questioning?
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Synopsis
In a historic event, former first lady of South Korea, Kim Keon Hee, publicly apologized for causing distress while facing questioning over serious allegations, including stock manipulation and election interference. As she navigates this tumultuous ordeal, her statements and the unfolding investigation are drawing significant public attention.
Key Takeaways
- Historic event: Kim Keon Hee is the first spouse of a president to face public questioning.
- Serious allegations: The investigation involves stock manipulation and election meddling.
- Public apology: Kim expressed regret for causing concern among the people.
- Protests: Demonstrators both supporting and opposing her gathered outside the questioning venue.
- Future questioning: Further sessions are likely as the investigation proceeds.
Seoul, Aug 6 (NationPress) Kim Keon Hee, the former first lady of South Korea, expressed her sincere apologies on Wednesday for any distress she may have caused as she attended questioning by a special counsel regarding her alleged involvement in stock manipulation, election interference, and various other accusations.
The wife of imprisoned former President Yoon Suk Yeol arrived at the office of special counsel Min Joong-ki ten minutes past her scheduled time, marking a historic moment as she became the first spouse of a former or sitting president to publicly face questioning as a criminal suspect, according to Yonhap news agency.
"I am genuinely sorry that a person like me has raised concerns among the public," Kim stated to reporters before taking the elevator. "I intend to cooperate fully with the investigation and will return afterward."
Kim is under suspicion for her alleged involvement in a stock price manipulation scheme related to Deutsch Motors, a BMW dealership in South Korea, from 2009 to 2012. She is also accused of meddling in candidate nominations for the 2022 parliamentary by-elections and upcoming 2024 general elections, as well as accepting luxury items from the Unification Church via a shaman in return for business favors.
The special counsel team is examining a total of 16 criminal allegations against her, suggesting that she may be called back for additional questioning.
Among the allegations, it has been claimed that Kim failed to disclose a luxury necklace worn during a trip to Spain with Yoon in 2022 in their legally mandated asset declaration. Furthermore, Yoon reportedly made false statements regarding his wife's alleged involvement in the stock manipulation during the 2021 presidential primaries.
Moreover, there are investigations into suspicions that the couple's unexpected visit to Ukraine in 2023 coincided with a significant rise in the stock price of a construction company, that an expressway project's endpoint was altered to benefit Kim's family's land in Yangpyeong, east of Seoul, and that her family received preferential treatment in an apartment construction project.
The interrogation lasted for 1.5 hours before a lunch break, with the session resuming in the afternoon. Kim's representatives objected to the session being recorded on video.
The special counsel has not disclosed when the questioning will conclude, having denied reports that it would end at 6 p.m. as requested by Kim's legal team.
If the questioning extends past 9 p.m., the team must obtain the suspect's consent, as reported by Yonhap.
Outside the building, demonstrators both supporting and opposing the former first couple gathered early in the morning, chanting contrasting slogans in the rain.
Previously, two other former first ladies have faced investigations. In 2004, Lee Soon-ja, the wife of former President Chun Doo-hwan, was questioned by prosecutors in a slush fund case, which only became public knowledge afterward. In 2009, Kwon Yang-sook, the wife of former President Roh Moo-hyun, was also questioned by prosecutors as a witness in a corruption case, which was revealed the following day.
Point of View
It is essential to approach this situation with integrity and impartiality. The investigation into Kim Keon Hee highlights the intersection of personal actions and public responsibility. As the former first lady faces serious allegations, the unfolding events serve as a reminder of the accountability public figures have towards their constituents. The nation must remain engaged and informed as this story develops, ensuring a balanced viewpoint is maintained.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against Kim Keon Hee?
Kim Keon Hee faces multiple allegations, including involvement in stock price manipulation, election interference, and receiving luxury gifts in exchange for political favors.
Why is Kim's questioning significant?
Kim's questioning is significant because she is the first spouse of a former or sitting president in South Korea to publicly face criminal investigations, marking a notable moment in the country's political history.
How long did the questioning last?
The initial session of questioning lasted for approximately 1.5 hours before a lunch break.
What public response has there been to Kim's situation?
Outside the questioning venue, protesters both for and against the former first couple gathered, demonstrating the public's divided opinion on the matter.
What happens next in the investigation?
The special counsel is expected to continue its investigation, and Kim may be summoned for further questioning as they look into the 16 criminal allegations against her.
