Why Has South Korea's Ex-first Lady Kim Keon Hee's Detention Been Extended?
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Synopsis
South Korea’s former first lady, Kim Keon Hee, is facing serious charges including stock manipulation and corruption. Her detention has been extended to August 31, raising questions about the implications of these allegations on her future and the political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- The detention of Kim Keon Hee has been extended to August 31.
- She faces serious charges including stock manipulation and political interference.
- The special counsel must indict her within the current detention period.
- Kim Ye-seong's detention has been extended to September 1.
- Investigation into IMS Mobility is ongoing.
Seoul, Aug 20 (NationPress) The detention of South Korea's former first lady Kim Keon Hee has been prolonged by 10 days, now set to conclude at the end of this month, as stated by special counsel Min Joong-ki's team.
The team announced in a press release that a court made the decision to extend Kim's detention to August 31, according to the Yonhap News Agency.
Initially, her detention was scheduled to end on Thursday, marking 10 days after the court issued a warrant for her arrest. She faces serious allegations involving a stock manipulation scheme, interference in candidate nominations for the 2022 parliamentary by-elections and 2024 general elections, and accepting luxury gifts from the Unification Church via a shaman in exchange for business favors.
According to current legislation, the special counsel is required to indict the suspect within this extended detention period, with no option for further extensions.
The special counsel team has already called Kim for questioning regarding the corruption claims twice, with a third session scheduled for Thursday.
On the same day, it was also determined that the detention of Kim Ye-seong, known as the 'butler' for the former first lady’s family, will be extended to September 1.
He is under investigation for allegedly embezzling 3.38 billion won (approximately US$2.4 million) from IMS Mobility, a company in which he holds a stake.
The special counsel is probing claims that IMS Mobility unjustly secured investments from various firms, including Kakao Mobility Corp., in 2023.
Given that IMS Mobility was practically in financial distress at the time, special prosecutors suspect the investments may have been made due to connections with Kim and the former first lady.
Kim Keon Hee was taken into custody at a detention center in southwestern Seoul last week after a court issued a warrant against her for her involvement in a stock manipulation scheme, meddling in candidate nominations for the 2022 parliamentary by-elections and 2024 general elections, and receiving luxury gifts from the Unification Church via a shaman in exchange for business favors.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this developing situation with integrity and impartiality. The allegations against Kim Keon Hee raise significant concerns regarding governance and accountability in South Korea. It remains essential for the public to stay informed and for justice to prevail in these serious matters.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the charges against Kim Keon Hee?
Kim Keon Hee faces charges related to stock manipulation, interference in candidate nominations for elections, and receiving luxury gifts through corrupt means.
How long has her detention been extended?
Her detention has been extended by 10 days, now concluding on August 31.
What is the role of the special counsel?
The special counsel is responsible for investigating allegations of corruption and must indict suspects within the detention period.
Who is Kim Ye-seong?
Kim Ye-seong is referred to as the 'butler' of Kim Keon Hee's family and is also facing charges related to embezzlement.
What is IMS Mobility?
IMS Mobility is a company allegedly involved in corrupt investment practices, which is currently under investigation.
