Prosecutors raided the house of former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Wednesday. The raid is linked to an investigation into allegations that a scandalous shaman bestowed expensive gifts on his wife, Kim Keon Hee.
The gifts, including a diamond necklace, a designer handbag, and ginseng, are reported to have been presented via an official in the Unification Church. Yoon Suk Yeol’s connection to the scandal has made him the subject of more investigations by the public.
Charges against the Shaman
Jeon Seong-bae, the shaman at the center of the investigation, stands accused of accepting luxurious gifts on behalf of Kim Keon Hee. He disputes handing over the items but was party to a text message conversation where a Unification Church official requested that the necklace be returned.
Prosecutors are busy verifying the legitimacy of these accusations and establishing if Kim had accepted the gifts.
Unification Church
The Unification Church, or the Moonies, is central to the investigation. The gifts were reportedly given by a senior church official. Prosecutors are intent on finding the links between Kim and the church. Their inquiry could reveal how religious leaders could shape political leaders.
Political Fallout from the Scandal
The raid further fuels public discontent with Yoon’s government. Accusations of shamanistic meddling in his presidency have already damaged his approval ratings. The scandal surrounding his wife’s alleged gift-giving scandal and previous accusations of stock manipulation has further exacerbated the public’s distrust.
It has also cost his party the general elections.
Yoon’s Brief Martial Law Attempt
Yoon Suk Yeol’s political woes do not end here. The raid follows the Constitutional Court stripping him of authority after he tried to impose martial law. His move was roundly condemned and led to his downfall. This latest scandal is just another addition to his woes.
The raid highlights growing scrutiny on South Korean politicians’ personal lives, especially when linked to controversial figures like shamans. As public discontent rises, South Korea’s political landscape faces increasing pressure. Whether Yoon can recover his credibility remains uncertain.
