Did Special Counsel Raid Shaman Linked to Ex-First Lady Kim?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a dramatic turn of events, Special Prosecutor Min Joong-ki's team has raided the office of a shaman linked to former first lady Kim Keon Hee. This investigation centers on luxury gifts allegedly received by Kim from a religious group, raising serious questions about corruption and influence in South Korea's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Special Prosecutor's team raided a shaman's office.
- Investigation focuses on luxury gifts to former first lady Kim Keon Hee.
- Jeon Seong-bae is under scrutiny for his connections to the case.
- Allegations include stock price manipulation and electoral interference.
- Warrant sought for Kim Ye-seong's detention.
Seoul, July 15 (NationPress) In a significant development, Special Prosecutor Min Joong-ki's team has launched a raid on the office of a notorious shaman who is believed to be linked to former first lady Kim Keon Hee. This action is part of the ongoing investigation into allegations that Kim accepted luxurious gifts from a religious organization three years ago.
On Tuesday morning, prosecutors and investigators descended on the office of Jeon Seong-bae, also recognized as Geon Jin, located in Yeoksam-dong, southern Seoul. Their goal was to gather documents and computer files regarding his suspected role in delivering gifts to Kim.
Reports suggest that Jeon allegedly received a diamond necklace and a high-end bag from a senior official of the Unification Church between April and August 2022, shortly after Yoon Suk Yeol was elected president in March of that same year. It is claimed that these gifts were passed on to Kim, according to information from the Yonhap news agency.
The church official is said to have sought various business benefits from the Yoon administration in exchange for the purported gifts. Jeon has acknowledged receiving the items but maintains that he lost them all.
The special counsel has been probing into 16 different criminal allegations against the former first lady, which include her supposed involvement in stock price manipulation and her interference in electoral nominations.
Assistant Special Prosecutor Moon Hong-ju informed the media that they have applied for a warrant to detain Kim Ye-seong, a close associate of the former first lady who is believed to have fled to Vietnam in April.
"We consider that neither Kim nor his wife intends to return voluntarily to face questioning, as they have not communicated with the special counsel," Moon remarked.
If a warrant is granted, Moon indicated that they would take measures to invalidate his passport.
Kim Ye-seong, who is often referred to as the butler of the former first lady's family, is accused of receiving 18 billion won (approximately $13.1 million) in questionable investments from various companies through his rental car business IMS in 2023.
Point of View
The ongoing investigation into former first lady Kim Keon Hee's alleged involvement in corruption reflects a critical moment in South Korea's political narrative. The actions taken by Special Prosecutor Min Joong-ki's team reveal a commitment to transparency and accountability, crucial for restoring public trust in governance. As the story unfolds, it is essential to approach it with an unbiased lens, focusing on facts and developments.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the raid on the shaman's office?
The raid was prompted by ongoing investigations into former first lady Kim Keon Hee's alleged acceptance of luxury gifts from a religious group.
Who is Jeon Seong-bae?
Jeon Seong-bae, also known as Geon Jin, is a shaman suspected of delivering luxury gifts to Kim Keon Hee.
What are the allegations against Kim Keon Hee?
Kim Keon Hee faces multiple allegations, including stock price manipulation and interference in electoral nominations.
What is the current status of Kim Ye-seong?
Kim Ye-seong, a close associate of Kim Keon Hee, is believed to have fled to Vietnam, and a warrant has been requested for his detention.
What is the significance of this investigation?
The investigation is significant as it addresses potential corruption at high levels of government, impacting public trust.
