A special investigation team questioned Kim Keon-hee, the wife of South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, regarding a luxury clutch bag she allegedly received. The inquiry focused on whether the gift was an improper reward, a charge Kim Keon-hee vehemently denied, questioning the investigators’ scope and methods.
Allegations of Improper Gift Receipt
The investigation stemmed from allegations that Kim Keon-hee received a clutch bag from the French luxury brand Roger Vivier. This gift was reportedly given by the aunt of Kim Gi-hyeon, a member of the People Power Party, around the time of his election as party leader in March 2023. The special prosecutor’s team, handling the case at the Seoul Central District Court, summoned Kim Keon-hee as a witness to clarify the circumstances surrounding the gift.
During the questioning, investigators pressed Kim Keon-hee, asking, “It seems like an extraordinary situation, why don’t you remember?” This question was posed in reference to the luxury item and its potential connection to political favors. Kim Keon-hee responded with a pointed question of her own: “Have you investigated all the spouses of past administrations?”
Kim Keon-hee’s Defense and Counter-Questions
Kim Keon-hee acknowledged receiving the Roger Vivier clutch bag but asserted that it was not a bribe. She stated that she initially didn’t realize the origin of the gift and later recognized it, but claimed her memory of how it came to her was unclear. “I didn’t receive it directly. It came indirectly, and I don’t clearly remember who it came through,” she explained.
When questioned about whether the gift was a reward for President Yoon Suk Yeol’s party leadership victory, Kim Keon-hee dismissed the notion. “The party leadership is not something I need to concern myself with, and I know nothing about it. That would be slandering the leader, Kim Gi-hyeon,” she stated.
The special investigation team pressed further, suggesting that receiving luxury gifts and personal letters was “extraordinary” and that she should “try to remember better.” This prompted a strong reaction from Kim Keon-hee, who retorted, “Investigators, have you investigated all the spouses of past presidents?”
She continued, “Is it only me? How can you call it extraordinary? Your assertion that it is extraordinary is wrong.” The prosecution countered that the situation appeared “extraordinary from the public’s perspective.” Kim Keon-hee questioned the public’s understanding and drew parallels to the current presidential office, suggesting the investigators might not fully grasp the inner workings of the administration.
Disagreement Over the Nature of the Gift
The exchange grew tense, with the presiding judge interjecting, “It’s not like the bag itself is unusual, is it?” Kim Keon-hee perceived the questions as aggressive and stated, “The fact that you are trying to make me out as guilty is incomprehensible.” She argued that while exploring possibilities is acceptable, establishing guilt based on speculation was inappropriate.
Kim Keon-hee also expressed frustration with the judge, asking him not to listen to only one side and to consider the details more accurately. She explained her perspective on acquiring clutch bags, stating that as a first lady, they are a necessity to match various outfits. “Clutch bags are essential for spouses. You always need one to match the dress code,” she said.
She admitted to purchasing less expensive, imitation versions when the branded items were too costly. “I even bought things that looked like imitations, and I had friends or younger acquaintances make them for me for a small fee,” she revealed. Regarding the Roger Vivier brand specifically, she mentioned learning about it around March of the previous year when she became the first lady, having bought a used one then because the new ones were too expensive.
Voluntary Appearance and Fine Reduction
Kim Keon-hee had initially planned to refuse to testify due to health reasons. However, the court informed her that as the recipient of the gift, she could not invoke the right to refuse testimony under the anti-graft law, as there was no penalty for a spouse receiving prohibited items in relation to their spouse’s duties.
Upon learning this, Kim Keon-hee asked, “Do I have to speak about things I don’t remember, stretching my imagination?” The judge assured her she only needed to speak according to her memory. She reiterated that since the matter did not involve her direct actions, her memory was limited.
Kim Keon-hee had previously been summoned as a witness to a trial on March 13 but did not appear, citing a reason for absence. The court had issued a fine of 3 million won (approximately $2,200 USD) and a warrant for her arrest. Her appearance on this occasion was compelled by law.
After concluding her testimony, the judge asked if her appearance was voluntary. Kim Keon-hee responded affirmatively, stating, “I came voluntarily,” and then requested, “Please reduce the fine a bit.” The 3 million won fine was subsequently withdrawn.
Background of the Allegations
The allegations center on the belief that Kim Gi-hyeon’s side provided support, including mobilizing supporters from a religious group, to President Yoon Suk Yeol during his party leadership bid. In return, Kim Keon-hee allegedly received the Roger Vivier clutch bag, valued at approximately 2.67 million won (around $2,000 USD), as a form of political compensation.
Kim Gi-hyeon’s camp has acknowledged gifting the bag but denies any intention of bribery, refuting the allegations of impropriety.
