Will South Korea's Special Counsel Successfully Raid Ex-First Lady Kim Keon Hee's Home?
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Synopsis
In a significant legal development, a special counsel team is attempting to raid the residence of former first lady Kim Keon Hee amid serious corruption allegations. This investigation not only involves her alleged acceptance of luxury gifts but also connects to broader accusations of election interference, raising questions about the integrity of South Korea's political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- Special counsel raids former first lady Kim Keon Hee's home.
- Investigating corruption allegations of luxury gifts.
- Related to potential election interference.
- Another investigation into Rep. Kim Sun-gyo ongoing.
- Former President Yoon Suk Yeol also implicated.
Seoul, July 25 (NationPress) A special counsel group was making efforts to conduct a search at the residence of former first lady Kim Keon Hee on Friday, as part of their inquiry into corruption allegations involving her.
The special counsel, led by Min Joong-ki, engaged in discussions with officials from the Presidential Security Service regarding the specifics of the raid, arriving at Kim's home in southern Seoul equipped with a search-and-seizure warrant.
This investigative team has been scrutinizing claims of Kim's supposed acceptance of luxurious gifts from a shaman, alongside allegations of her influence in election nominations, among various other accusations.
In a separate operation, the team also executed a search at the office of Rep. Kim Sun-gyo within the National Assembly, seeking evidence concerning allegations that the People Power Party lawmaker intervened in a controversial expressway project in 2023, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
During the presidency of Yoon Suk Yeol, who is Kim's husband, accusations arose that the endpoint of the Seoul-Yangpyeong expressway project was altered to benefit land owned by Kim's family in Yangpyeong, east of Seoul, leading to claims of preferential treatment.
The lawmaker, who previously held the position of county governor, is under suspicion for initiating this change. Following the emergence of this scandal, the government announced plans to terminate the project.
On an earlier note, the special counsel summoned both former President Yoon Suk Yeol and former first lady Kim to undergo questioning regarding allegations of election interference and other irregularities.
Special counsel Min Joong-ki's team issued a summons to the Seoul Detention Centre, where Yoon is currently incarcerated, requesting his presence as a suspect at 10 a.m. on July 29, as stated by assistant special counsel Moon Hong-ju during a press briefing.
Additionally, a summons was sent to Kim's residence, asking her to appear as a suspect at 10 a.m. on August 6, according to the official.
Kim is anticipated to be interrogated regarding her alleged participation in two stock price manipulation schemes, her supposed acceptance of luxurious items from a shaman, and her involvement in election nominations, as noted by a team representative.
Point of View
Our commitment is to deliver unbiased, accurate reporting. The ongoing investigation into former first lady Kim Keon Hee reflects a significant moment in South Korea's legal and political landscape, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability at all levels of government.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against Kim Keon Hee?
Kim Keon Hee is facing allegations of accepting luxury items from a shaman and interfering in election nominations, among other claims.
What is the significance of the Seoul-Yangpyeong expressway project?
The project is under scrutiny due to allegations that it was altered to benefit Kim's family, raising concerns about preferential treatment.
When is Kim Keon Hee expected to appear for questioning?
Kim is scheduled to appear for questioning at 10 a.m. on August 6.
What role does former President Yoon Suk Yeol play in this investigation?
Former President Yoon Suk Yeol is also under investigation and has been summoned for questioning regarding election interference.
What are the implications of these allegations for South Korean politics?
These allegations could lead to significant political repercussions and a demand for greater accountability within the government.
