Ruling on Kim Keon-hee's Appeal to Be Issued Today

The appellate sentencing for First Lady Kim Keon-hee, who was handed a seven-year prison term at the first trial on charges of 'trading in influence' (leveraging one's position to receive favors in exchange for payment), will be issued today (the 22nd). The Seoul High Court's Criminal Division 15-3 will hold the sentencing hearing on charges of brokerage bribery (accepting money or goods in return for fulfilling requests) at 2 p.m.

Kim is accused of receiving precious metals worth a total of 103.8 million won — including a necklace, a brooch, and earrings — from Seohui Construction Chairman Lee Bong-gwan between March and May 2022 in connection with a request to arrange an appointment for her eldest son-in-law. She is also charged with receiving a wristwatch worth 39.9 million won from businessman Seo Sung-bin and a Dior bag worth 5.4 million won from pastor Choi Jae-young the same year. In addition, she faces charges of accepting a golden turtle and a replica of the painting 'Sehando' from former National Education Committee Chairman Lee Bae-yong, and a painting by master artist Lee Ufan worth 140 million won from former Chief Prosecutor Kim Sang-min, respectively, as compensation for favors.

The first-trial court found Kim guilty on all charges and sentenced her to seven years in prison. Kim's side appealed the verdict. Special prosecutor Kim's team also asked the court at the closing hearing on the 9th of last month to impose the same seven-year prison sentence as in the first trial.

Kim has denied the charges. In her final statement, Kim said, "It is not true at all that I made money by exploiting the president's position or sold public offices." She went on to say, "If I have done something wrong, I will not shirk responsibility, but I can never say I did something I did not do," adding, "I ask the court to examine this case thoroughly so that I can at least protect my honor."