By Obinna Uballa
Kim Keon Hee, the wife of South Korea’s ousted former president Yoon Suk Yeol, has pledged to face justice “with no excuses” after being indicted on bribery and other serious charges.
This is as both the firmer president and former first lady face tough times in jail.
In a statement released by her lawyers on Friday, Kim apologised for causing public concern but insisted she would endure the ordeal with dignity. “Just as moonlight shines brightly in the darkest night, I too will endure this time, looking to my truth and heart,” she said.
The indictment marks the latest twist in a dramatic political scandal that has engulfed South Korea, reports say.
Both Kim and her husband are currently in jail, with Yoon already standing trial for insurrection following his removal from office in April over a failed attempt to impose martial law in December.
Kim faces multiple charges, including stock fraud and bribery, which prosecutors say involved business executives, religious leaders, and a powerful political broker. If convicted, she could serve several years in prison.
Her lawyers have denied the allegations, dismissing media reports about some alleged gifts as “groundless speculation.”
The indictment comes as special prosecutors continue to unravel allegations of corruption and constitutional crisis tied to Yoon’s presidency.
On the same day, former prime minister Han Duck-soo, who briefly served as acting president after Yoon’s impeachment, was also indicted on charges of abetting insurrection and perjury.
