Kim Keon-hee, the wife of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, refused to provide testimony during her first summoning by the 2nd Comprehensive Special Prosecutor on Wednesday [1].

The investigation marks a significant escalation in legal scrutiny of the First Lady, as prosecutors examine whether she leveraged her position to influence government contracts and accept illicit gifts.

Kim arrived at the prosecutor's office in Seoul, where questioning began at 9:29 KST [2]. The session concluded around 17:50 KST [2]. Reports on the total duration of the interrogation vary between approximately six [2] and eight hours [1].

The probe focuses on allegations of preferential treatment regarding the presidential residence relocation project. Investigators are looking into whether Kim used her influence to secure the contract, misappropriate government funds, or obstruct audits [1].

Additionally, the prosecutor is investigating claims that Kim received luxury goods, including Dior clothing, from a group known as “21그램” in exchange for favoring the firm [1, 2].

Despite the gravity of the allegations, Kim remained silent throughout the process. Her lawyer, Choi Ji-woo, said that the First Lady denied the allegations [1]. A YTN news anchor said Kim refused to give any testimony [1].

A spokesperson for the special prosecutor team said the team is examining whether Kim exercised influence over everything from the awarding of the construction contract to the payment of costs, and the suppression of audits [1].

“Kim Keon-hee, the wife of South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, refused to provide testimony”

The First Lady's refusal to testify complicates the special prosecutor's effort to establish a direct link between her influence and the awarding of government contracts. By exercising her right to remain silent, Kim avoids providing potentially incriminating statements, but the move may increase political pressure on the Yoon administration as the investigation into the '21그램' luxury goods and residence relocation continues.