Kim Keon-hee to attend special prosecutor's investigation on July 19

South Korean First Lady Kim Keon-hee is set to appear before a special prosecutor's investigation on July 19, facing allegations of preferential treatment related to the relocation of the presidential residence.

The special prosecutor's team, led by Kwon Chang-young, is investigating charges of malfeasance and bribery against Kim. Prosecutors aim to question her about her alleged improper involvement in the selection process for the presidential residence construction company.

Investigators suspect that 21 Gram, a company reportedly lacking a general construction license, may have secured the contract by providing illicit benefits, including luxury Dior clothing, to Kim. This suspicion arose because 21 Gram had previously sponsored exhibitions by Covana Contents, a company formerly headed by Kim.

Previously, a different special prosecutor's team had investigated similar allegations. In November, they seized items, including Dior apparel, from locations linked to the case. At that time, investigators believed that the wife of 21 Gram's CEO had delivered these items to Kim in exchange for the presidential residence construction contract.

More recently, the current special prosecutor's team, which took over the case in April, uncovered additional evidence. Their investigation suggests that a small to medium-sized fashion and culture company, rather than 21 Gram, may have provided the luxury goods to Kim. The team also questioned Yoo Kyung-ok, a former presidential office administrative officer and ex-employee of Covana Contents, on July 7 regarding aiding and abetting bribery.