Frist Lady Kim Kun-hee Linked to ‘Golden Turtle’ Controversy in Newly Released Photo
A recently surfaced photograph appears to connect South Korea’s First Lady, Kim Kun-hee, to former National Education Commission Chairman Lee Bae-yong, who is currently under scrutiny for alleged influence peddling involving what has been dubbed “golden turtle selling magic.” The image, released on May 20th, has ignited fresh debate surrounding potential conflicts of interest and improper influence within the yoon Seok-yeol administration.
A member of Sisain’s editorial committee, joo Jin-woo, revealed the photo during a broadcast on YouTube channel ‘Reporter Joo Live.’ The image depicts Mrs. Kim and former Chairman Lee standing together in a location believed to be Gyeonghoeru, a historic pavilion within Gyeongbokgung Palace.
The photograph shows mrs. Kim dressed in a sleeveless dress, slippers, and with her hand on her waist, while former Chairman Lee stands beside her.Few others are visible, suggesting a private encounter. While Commissioner joo initially suggested the location was Jongmyo Shrine, analysis of the interior details points towards the second floor of Gyeonghoeru, typically closed to the public except during limited special viewing periods – currently open from May 8th to May 31st. The exact date the photo was taken remains undisclosed.
This isn’t the first reported instance of the two individuals appearing together. according to reports, former Chairman Lee also attended a tea ceremony following a private visit by President Yoon Seok-yeol and his wife to Jongmyo Shrine in October 2023. During a National Assembly audit on May 16th, Democratic Party of Korea member Lee Ki-heon questioned the transparency surrounding the visit. “It is indeed said that Yoon Seok-yeol and Kim Kun-hee’s visit to the Jongmyo Shrine in 2023 was to inspect the construction of the Jongmyo Shrine,” he stated. “Though, such a schedule could have been made public or the photos could have been distributed after the fact after a private event, but they did not do so.” He further alleged that Mrs. Kim engaged in a private conversation with Chairman Lee while President Yoon was elsewhere.
The renewed scrutiny stems from the ongoing investigation into the “golden turtle sales magic” allegations.In July, the special prosecutor’s team led by Min Joong-ki uncovered a congratulatory letter to former Chairman Lee, accompanied by a golden turtle, during a search of a nursing home operated by Ms. Kim’s family. The team is currently investigating whether Mrs.Kim received financial benefits in exchange for influencing the appointment of Lee as the inaugural chairman of the National Education Commission. Currently listed as a witness, former Chairman Lee’s status could be elevated to suspect as the investigation progresses. The photograph released this week adds another layer to the unfolding controversy, raising questions about the nature of the relationship between Mrs. Kim and a key figure now at the center of a potential influence-peddling scandal.
why is this happening? The controversy centers around allegations that First Lady kim Kun-hee used her influence to secure the appointment of Lee Bae-yong as the inaugural chairman of the National Education Commission. This is linked to the “golden turtle sales magic” scheme, where Lee allegedly received a congratulatory gift – a golden turtle – alongside a letter during a raid of a nursing home connected to the Kim family. Who is involved? Key figures include First Lady Kim Kun-hee, former National Education Commission Chairman Lee Bae-yong, President Yoon Seok-yeol, and prosecutor Min Joong-ki leading the special investigation. Democratic Party member Lee Ki-heon has also been vocal in questioning the transparency of events. What are the allegations?
