Seoul: Prosecutors have indicted former President Yoon Suk Yeol on anti-graft charges linked to his wife's alleged acceptance of a luxury bag in 2022. This indictment adds to Yoon's legal challenges, as he is already facing multiple trials following his failed attempt to impose martial law in 2024 and subsequent removal from office.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Yoon is accused of not reporting the former first lady Kim Keon Hee's alleged receipt of a Dior bag, valued at 3 million won (approximately US$2,170), from a pastor in 2022. This disclosure is required under anti-graft legislation. The Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office has been handling the case, which was initially not pursued in October 2024 due to its perceived lack of relevance to Yoon's official duties during his presidency.
The recent indictment follows a June decision by a Seoul district court, which convicted Kim of accepting the luxury item and other valuables in exchange for favors. The verdict is currently being appealed. Meanwhile, prosecutors have also decided against charging Yoon with election law violations related to accusations of false statements regarding his wife's stock transactions before the 2022 presidential election, citing insufficient evidence.