Kim Gun-hee, the wife of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, appeared as a witness in his trial on April 14, 2026, concerning allegations of violating political funds laws. The couple, both currently facing trial, met in court for the first time in nine months, following Yoon’s re-arrest last July.
A First Face-to-Face Meeting
Kim Gun-hee testified in a hearing at the Seoul Central District Court’s Criminal Division 33, presided over by Judge Lee Jin-gwan, alongside defendant Myung Tae-gyun. This marked the first time the couple had been present together in the same courtroom during the proceedings.
Kim Gun-hee arrived at the court around 2:08 PM, dressed in a black suit and assisted by court officers. Yoon Suk-yeol reportedly continuously watched Kim Gun-hee upon her entrance, and later smiled and nodded towards her after she was seated. Kim Gun-hee primarily looked at the courtroom screen or towards the judge’s bench.
After taking an oath, Kim Gun-hee confirmed she was the wife of the defendant, Yoon Suk-yeol, when questioned by the special investigation team. However, she declined to answer subsequent questions, resulting in the testimony being completed within 30 minutes. She also refused to answer questions regarding Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of candidacy for the 20th presidential election on June 29, 2021, and his registration as a preliminary candidate on July 12 of the same year.
The Charges and Legal Proceedings
Yoon Suk-yeol is accused of conspiring with Kim Gun-hee to receive 58 instances of free polling services, totaling 270 million won, from Myung Tae-gyun between April 2021 and March 2022, in violation of political funds laws. Kim Gun-hee was also indicted on the same charges but received a not-guilty verdict in the first trial, with a second trial verdict scheduled for April 28, 2026.
The court plans to hold another hearing on April 21, conduct examination of the defendant on May 12, and conclude the trial. A verdict is expected in June.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges is Yoon Suk-yeol facing?
Yoon Suk-yeol is facing charges of violating political funds laws, specifically related to allegedly receiving free polling services from Myung Tae-gyun.
Has Kim Gun-hee been convicted of any wrongdoing in this case?
Kim Gun-hee received a not-guilty verdict in the first trial, but is awaiting a verdict in her second trial scheduled for April 28, 2026.
What was Kim Gun-hee’s role during her testimony?
Kim Gun-hee confirmed she was the wife of the defendant but declined to answer further questions from the special investigation team, resulting in a brief testimony.
As this case progresses, will the court’s ability to establish a clear factual basis be significantly impacted by the limited testimony provided by key witnesses?
