Wife of Jailed Former South Korean President Arrested

TDT | Manama

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The wife of South Korea’s imprisoned former president, Yoon Suk Yeol, has been arrested as prosecutors prepare to charge her with multiple alleged crimes, including bribery, stock manipulation, and influencing the selection of a political candidate.

A Seoul court approved the arrest late Tuesday, agreeing with a special prosecutor’s request and citing concerns that Kim Keon Hee might destroy evidence.

The case is part of three special investigations launched under South Korea’s new liberal government into Yoon’s presidency. The conservative leader was removed from office in April and rearrested last month over his brief but controversial imposition of martial law in December.

Yoon and Kim are now the first former presidential couple in the country’s history to be jailed at the same time on criminal charges.

Yoon’s downfall came after what critics call a rash and poorly planned attempt to cling to power during a political standoff with liberal lawmakers. He accused them of being “anti-state” forces using their majority to block his agenda.

Some opponents believe his actions may have also been driven by mounting scandals involving his wife, which had been eroding his popularity and strengthening his rivals’ hand.