South Korean prosecutors requested a 15-year prison sentence for Kim Keon Hee, the former first lady, on December 3.
The request comes as the first anniversary of Kim's husband, former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, declaring martial law in Seoul, Reuters noted. The court is expected to deliver a verdict on January 28, 2026.
South Korea prosecutors seek 15-year jail term for ex-First Lady Kimhttps://t.co/hKOOLYIexU
— Reuters Asia (@ReutersAsia) , December 3, 2025
Kim is currently standing trial at the Seoul Central District Court for multiple charges, including allegedly manipulating the stock market, misusing her political influence, and receiving bribes from the controversial Unification Church, a splinter Christian organization in South Korea oftenaccused of cult practices. She also reportedly demanded that a broker conduct polls at no cost for her and her husband. （Related： ‘Taiwan’ or ‘The Republic of China’? Wording on Student Exam Stirs Public Discussion ｜ Latest ）
Wearing a black suit, Kim appeared in court and apologized to the public for causing concern. However, she publicly denied all charges of misconduct brought by the prosecution.
