Ex-first lady appeals 5-year bribery sentence to Supreme Court

Former first lady Kim Keon Hee has appealed her 5-year bribery sentence to South Korea's Supreme Court, taking the case to the highest legal authority in the country. The Seoul High Court originally sentenced Kim to five years in prison for accepting bribes in exchange for mediation services, but partially overturned a seven-year sentence in a recent appellate ruling.

The charges stem from allegations that Kim received expensive gifts from various individuals in return for job appointments and business favors between 2022 and 2023. While the district court had convicted Kim on all counts in June, the appellate court acquitted her of receiving a luxury watch and a replica of a Joseon Dynasty painting.

The special counsel team involved in the case has also stated its intention to take the matter to the Supreme Court.

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