Opposition lawmaker faces one-year jail request over luxury bag gift to former first lady

In a case before the Seoul Central District Court, a special counsel team led by Min Joong-ki has requested a one-year imprisonment for People Power Party lawmaker Kim Gi-hyeon, alleging he provided a Roger Vivier clutch to former first lady Kim Keon Hee as a quid pro quo for her support in his March 2023 bid to become party leader. The prosecutors also asked for a six-month term for Kim’s wife, who is accused of physically delivering the luxury item.

Kim has acknowledged that his wife gave the bag to the former first lady but rejects claims that he sought improper favors. Kim Keon Hee, who has prior convictions in separate corruption matters, admitted she received the bag but noted it was not handed to her in person. The case highlights ongoing anti-graft investigations targeting high-profile political figures in South Korea.