First Lady Admits Receiving Luxury Bag, Cites Initial Ignorance

First Lady Kim Keon-hee acknowledged receiving a luxury handbag, admitting she initially did not realize its significance but later became aware of it. Her testimony came as a witness in a trial concerning allegations that the spouse of a ruling People Power Party official gifted her a luxury bag worth approximately 2.67 million won (about $1,900 USD).

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Do I have to speak with imagination about things I don't know?

The trial involves charges of violating the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act against Kim Ki-hyeon, a former party leader, and his spouse. The luxury item in question is reportedly a clutch bag from the brand Roger Vivier. Kim Keon-hee had previously been summoned as a witness but failed to appear, leading the court to issue an arrest warrant and impose a fine.

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I had little memory of this case as it was not something I was directly involved in.

During the court session, the judge informed Kim that she did not have the right to refuse testimony in this specific case, as the law does not penalize the spouse of a public official for receiving such gifts. While Kim's defense argued that the prosecution had previously suggested the need for further investigation into the matter as bribery, the court rejected this, stating that the current case does not involve direct bribery charges against her. Kim expressed frustration, questioning the need to speculate and stating she had little memory of the event as it was not directly involving her. However, the court instructed her to answer based on her recollection.

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At first I didn't know, but later I recognized it.