What Did South Korea's Special Counsel Uncover About the Opposition Lawmaker's Gift to the Ex-First Lady?
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Synopsis
In a significant political development, Representative Kim Gi-hyeon of South Korea's opposition PPP is being investigated for alleged bribery linked to a luxury gift for former first lady Kim Keon Hee. This story delves into the intricate web of political maneuvering and allegations surrounding this high-profile case.
Key Takeaways
- Representative Kim Gi-hyeon faces scrutiny for alleged bribery.
- A luxury clutch bag is at the center of the investigation.
- The investigation is led by special counsel Min Joong-ki.
- Political implications may arise for the People Power Party.
- Transparency and accountability are critical in politics.
Seoul, Dec 22 (NationPress) Representative Kim Gi-hyeon of South Korea's primary opposition People Power Party (PPP) faced questioning on Monday as part of a special counsel investigation concerning bribery claims linked to former first lady Kim Keon Hee.
Representative Kim arrived at special counsel Min Joong-ki's office in central Seoul at approximately 1:30 p.m. as a suspect and was interrogated about a luxurious gift allegedly presented to the former first lady two years prior.
Min's team had initially requested the lawmaker's appearance for questioning on December 16, which he reportedly declined. Subsequently, both parties managed to negotiate a new date for his appearance, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
The lawmaker's spouse, identified as Lee, is suspected of delivering a Roger Vivier clutch bag valued at 2.6 million won (approximately US$1,760) to Kim shortly after Representative Kim assumed the role of chairperson of the PPP in March 2023.
During the interrogation, Representative Kim was asked whether he was informed about the delivery of the clutch bag.
The bag was found at the former first lady's residence, accompanied by a thank-you note penned by Lee, during a raid conducted by the special counsel team on November 6.
The investigation team suspects that Kim conspired with a shaman to enlist around 2,400 Unification Church members to the PPP in support of Representative Kim's leadership bid, with the gift being a token of gratitude for their assistance.
While Representative Kim has acknowledged the delivery of the gift, he has refuted the bribery allegations, asserting that it was a gesture of social courtesy.
On Sunday, the leader of South Korea's Reform Party, Lee Jun-seok, was subjected to nearly 10 hours of questioning by a special counsel team over claims of election interference involving former First Lady Kim Keon Hee.
Lee appeared before the team led by special counsel Min Joong-ki at 10 a.m. and departed around 7:40 p.m. This special counsel was established in July to investigate corruption and various allegations surrounding the former First Lady.
"I sincerely cooperated with the investigation," Lee remarked to reporters upon his exit. "I also provided sincere testimony regarding former President Yoon Suk Yeol."
This marked the first instance of Lee being interrogated by the special counsel.
Min's team is probing claims that Lee colluded with former President Yoon and his spouse, Kim, to influence candidate nominations for the 2022 parliamentary by-elections. At that time, Lee was leading the then-ruling People Power Party (PPP).
Yoon and Kim are suspected of accepting complimentary opinion polls from self-proclaimed power broker Myung Tae-kyun prior to the 2022 presidential election in exchange for nominating former PPP Rep. Kim Young-sun as a candidate for the by-elections.
Lee has denied all allegations.
Point of View
This investigation into Representative Kim Gi-hyeon reflects a broader concern regarding corruption within political institutions. The ongoing scrutiny highlights the necessity for transparency and accountability among public officials, particularly those in influential positions.
NationPress
22/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against Representative Kim Gi-hyeon?
Representative Kim Gi-hyeon is being investigated for allegedly giving a luxury gift to former first lady Kim Keon Hee as part of a bribery scheme.
What was the luxury item involved in the case?
The luxury item at the center of the investigation is a Roger Vivier clutch bag valued at 2.6 million won (approximately US$1,760).
Who is leading the special counsel investigation?
The special counsel investigation is being led by Min Joong-ki.
What implications does this investigation have for South Korean politics?
This investigation could significantly impact public trust in the political system and may result in calls for greater accountability among politicians.
Has Representative Kim acknowledged the gift?
Yes, Representative Kim has acknowledged the delivery of the gift but denies any allegations of bribery, claiming it was a social courtesy.
