Former South Korean first lady Kim Keon-hee was arrested Monday on corruption charges, an unprecedented move in the country’s political history.
The Seoul Central District Court approved prosecutors’ request, citing fears she could destroy evidence. Kim faces allegations of stock manipulation, bribery, and illegal political funding. Investigators say she received luxury handbags and jewelry in exchange for favors.
She was taken to Nambu Detention Center and placed in solitary confinement. Authorities can hold her for up to 20 days before pressing formal charges.
Her arrest comes as her husband, impeached former president Yoon Suk-yeol, remains jailed on charges of attempting to declare martial law during unrest last year. It is the first time in modern South Korea that both a former president and a first lady are in custody at the same time.
Analysts say the case could shake public trust in the political establishment ahead of elections. Supporters argue the arrests show no one is above the law, while critics accuse prosecutors of exploiting political divisions.
Kim denies the charges and her lawyers said she is cooperating. The case is expected to dominate debate in South Korea, where corruption scandals have toppled leaders before.
