Ex first lady arrested in bribery probe

For the first time in South Korea both a former president and his wife are jailed as a bribery and stock manipulation investigation unfolds.

South Korea ex first lady arrested in bribery probe

The wife of jailed former president Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim Keon Hee, was arrested on charges including stock manipulation and bribery. She denied all charges during a four hour court hearing in Seoul on Tuesday. The court issued a detention warrant, citing the risk that she may destroy evidence. Yoon Suk Yeol was detained earlier in January to face trial over a failed martial law bid that led to his ouster. This marks the first time both a former president and his spouse have been jailed in Korea. The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of power and the limits of impunity in political life.

The arrests come at a moment when trust in public institutions is already under pressure. If prosecutors can demonstrate a clear link between the allegations and the former president's circle, it could strengthen calls for accountability even when power is exercised by political allies. Yet the legal process will also shape Korea's image abroad as a place where rule of law applies to all, not just rivals. The case could prompt reforms or louder political conversations about how to prevent abuses while preserving stability.

Highlights

The road to judgment will define whether accountability is consistent across power circles.