1

Kim Keon-hee, wife of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, appeared publicly on August 6 for her first summons by special prosecutor Min Joong-gi’s team. It marked the first time in South Korea’s constitutional history that a former first lady stood before the photo line as a criminal suspect.

Arriving at the special prosecutor’s office in KT Gwanghwamun Building, Jongno District, Seoul, at 10:11 a.m., Kim wore a black suit and carried a black handbag, walking directly inside with her head bowed and little expression.

Standing at the photo line on the second floor, she said, “I sincerely apologize to the public for causing concern as someone so insignificant like myself,” adding, “I will undergo the investigation properly.”

When reporters asked if she had more to say to the public, she replied briefly, “I’m sorry.” Kim remained silent on questions regarding allegations about luxury gifts, fake jewelry worn during overseas trips, knowledge of the Deutsche Motors stock manipulation scheme, and her connection to businessman Myung Tae-kyun.

The investigation began at 10:23 a.m. without a break. Prosecutors plan to question Kim in the order of alleged Deutsche Motors stock manipulation (violation of the Capital Markets Act), involvement in candidate nominations linked to Myung Tae-kyun (bribery, violation of the Political Funds Act and Election Law), and influence-peddling involving a shaman known as "Geonjin Beopsa." Other charges under review include alleged stock manipulation by Samboo Construction, preferential treatment related to the Yangpyeong Expressway, and bribery through sponsorships for Covana Contents, indicating further sessions are likely.

Kim’s legal team requested separate questioning for each charge, guaranteed breaks, and an end to questioning before 6 p.m., but prosecutors stressed adherence to “law and principle” and declined any special treatment. Some observers predict the special counsel may move quickly to secure her custody if she resists additional summons.