A storm is brewing in South Korean politics as hidden camera footage allegedly capturing the country's First Lady, Kim Keon Hee, accepting a Dior bag as a gift has ignited a political firestorm. The incident, labeled the "Dior Bag Scandal" by local media, is putting President Yoon Suk Yeol and his conservative People Power Party (PPP) on shaky ground, jeopardizing their bid to reclaim a parliamentary majority in the upcoming April election.
Amid calls for accountability, some members of the PPP are urging President Yoon and his wife to address the controversy head-on. However, Yoon's office has chosen silence, a decision that analysts warn could escalate the situation and potentially cost the PPP the crucial April 10 election.
Political analyst Rhee Jong-hoon described the events as a "political bombshell," pointing towards the increasing risks faced by Kim Keon Hee. Yoon, who secured a narrow victory in 2022, currently leads a minority government in a parliament controlled by the rival Democratic Party.
Critics argue that Kim's acceptance of the purse, valued at 3 million won (Rs 1.86 lakh), may have violated anti-bribery laws, raising legal concerns for the First Lady. Supporters of the president, however, claim that Kim is a victim of an orchestrated plot to tarnish her reputation.
The controversy emerged in November when a video clip, secretly recorded by a Korean American pastor, Rev. Abraham Choi, surfaced on a YouTube channel. Choi alleges that luxury gifts, including the Dior bag, were necessary for securing an audience with Kim.
In response to these allegations, Yoon's office maintains a position of no comment, leaving room for speculation. An unnamed presidential official told Yonhap news agency that Choi had approached Kim with the intention of illegal filming, emphasizing that gifts to the couple are considered government property.
Kim Keon Hee is not a stranger to controversy, as she remains entangled in allegations of stock price manipulation from over a decade ago. Additionally, recent accusations of plagiarism and falsified professional records in her Ph.D. thesis have further fueled public scrutiny.
Public sentiment appears to be turning against Kim, with 53% of respondents in a December poll believing she acted inappropriately, while 27% suspecting a setup to embarrass her. A recent YTN cable news poll indicates that 69% of respondents feel President Yoon needs to provide a clear explanation regarding the first lady's controversy.
Tensions within the PPP escalated last week when a party leader likened the situation to the notoriety of Marie Antoinette, drawing parallels with the French Queen known for her extravagance. This comparison reportedly angered President Yoon, hinting at a potential divide within the party leadership.
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