South Korean impeached former president's wife goes on trial for corruption

South Korea opened a criminal trial for the wife of impeached former president Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday, September 24, marking the first time an ex-first lady has faced trial in the country, after her husband was removed from office over a martial law bid. Kim Keon Hee was arrested in August on a range of charges, including stock manipulation and corruption.

She appeared in person at the Seoul Central District Court, escorted by guards. Dressed in a dark suit with her hair tied back, the former first lady wore a badge on her chest bearing her inmate number: 4398.

The trial began with the court confirming her identity and her occupation, to which she replied briefly: "I am unemployed." She also gave her date of birth and declined to request a jury trial.

The presidential couple is on trial simultaneously

The case means South Korea now has both a former president and a former first lady simultaneously facing criminal proceedings.

Her husband Yoon, as president, vetoed three special investigation bills passed by the opposition-controlled parliament that sought to probe the allegations against Kim, with the last veto issued in late November. A week later, Yoon declared martial law.

Kim has long faced scrutiny, with lingering questions about her alleged role in stock manipulation. Public criticism was reignited in 2022, when a left-wing pastor filmed himself presenting her with a Dior handbag, which she appeared to accept.

She is also accused of interfering in the nomination process for MPs in Yoon's party, a violation of election laws.

Legal experts say the trial could see the former presidential couple summoned together over their alleged role in influencing parliamentary elections.