Former South Korean First Lady Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Bribery

A court in South Korea ruled on Friday that former First Lady Kim Kyung-hee must serve seven years in prison for bribery charges. She was convicted of accepting lavish gifts, including jewelry and a Dior handbag, in return for political advantages.

The judge at the Seoul Central District Court stated that Kim, the wife of former President Yoon Suk-yeol who was removed from office in 2025 following an attempt to impose martial law, received bribes both before and during his presidency.

Accused of abusing her position, the judge said Kim "exercised her authority as First Lady to provide jobs and business privileges," and was willing to use her influence to help individuals secure key government or parliamentary roles.

The list of bribes included jewelry such as a necklace from Van Cleef & Arpels, a decorative pin from Tiffany, and a pair of earrings from Graff, according to Reuters.

Additionally, Kim was found to have received a golden turtle, a Dior handbag, a Vacheron Constantin watch valued at 39 million won (approximately $25,349.86), and an artwork worth 140 million won.

The court also imposed a fine of 64.8 million won on Kim and ordered the confiscation of any bribery items if located.

South Korea’s Yonhap News Agency reported that Kim denied all charges. Her lawyer told reporters that they intend to appeal the verdict, accusing the judge of exaggerating evidence unfavorable to Kim.