South Korean prosecutors raid ex-first lady's home in corruption probe
The search, led by Special Counsel Min Joong-ki's team, also targeted the office of Covana Contents — an arts exhibition firm previously operated by Kim — ahead of her scheduled questioning on August 6.
Kim is under scrutiny for alleged involvement in stock manipulation and the illegal acceptance of a luxury handbag.
Authorities are also examining whether she received luxury gifts from a Unification Church official seeking influence over major development projects, including a $1.5 billion funding initiative in Cambodia, a United Nations office bid, and a news channel acquisition.
On Thursday, Special Counsel Min broadened the investigation to include links to Cambodia and Mongolia.
A separate probe led by Special Counsel Cho Eun-seok is investigating South Korean military intelligence efforts to contact North Korea's embassy in Mongolia days before President Yoon Suk Yeol declared martial law on Dec. 3.Two South Korean intelligence officers were reportedly detained in Mongolia in connection with the attempted outreach.Meanwhile, former Interior Minister Lee Sang-min was questioned Friday over his alleged role in the controversial martial law declaration, which was quickly rescinded amid public outcry.The twin investigations continue to place growing legal pressure on both former President Yoon and his wife, deepening South Korea's political turmoil. — Agencies
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