South Korean appeals court cuts ex-first lady Kim Keon Hee's prison term to five years

September 22, 2026 at 04:35 PM2 min

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A South Korean appeals court on Tuesday reduced former first lady Kim Keon Hee's prison sentence from seven years to five years for bribery. The Seoul High Court partially overturned the lower court's conviction, acquitting her on some charges brought by special prosecutor Min Joon-gi. Kim's lawyers said they will appeal the remaining convictions to the Supreme Court.

Key Facts

The Seoul High Court reduced Kim Keon Hee's sentence from seven years to five years on September 22, 2026.
Kim was convicted of receiving luxury items in exchange for political favors during her husband's presidency.
The appeals court acquitted Kim on some charges brought by special prosecutor Min Joon-gi.
Kim's lawyers announced they will appeal the remaining convictions to the Supreme Court.
Former President Yoon Suk Yeol was previously impeached in December 2024 and later sentenced to life imprisonment for insurrection.

Appeal Ruling

The Seoul High Court partially overturned the lower court's seven-year sentence against Kim Keon Hee, wife of former President Yoon Suk Yeol. The appeals court acquitted her on some charges brought by special prosecutor Min Joon-gi. Kim's lawyers said they disagree with the remaining convictions and will appeal to the Supreme Court.

Bribery Charges

The special prosecutor's team accused Kim of receiving jewelry worth over 100 million won (about $73,000) from a construction company chairman between March and May 2022 in exchange for helping appoint his son-in-law to a government post. She was also charged with receiving a golden turtle figurine and a painting copy from a former head of the National Education Commission in April 2022 in exchange for supporting her appointment. Other alleged gifts included a Dior bag from a pastor in 2022, a Vacheron Constantin watch from another businessman in September 2022, and a painting by artist Lee Ufan from a former prosecutor in February 2023.

Yoon Suk Yeol Context

Former President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached in December 2024 for attempting to impose martial law. He was later sentenced to life imprisonment on charges of insurrection.