Prosecutors Search Yoon Sukyeol's Acrovista Residence in Probe Into Geonjin Beopsa Allegations

Prosecutors investigating the alleged illegal political fundraising by shaman Jeon Seongbae (65), also known as "Geonjin Beopsa," have launched a search and seizure operation at the Acrovista residence of former President Yoon Sukyeol in Seocho-dong, Seoul.

Former President Yoon Sukyeol is attending the second formal trial on charges of leading a rebellion at the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-dong on the 21st. April 21, 2025 Photo by Joint Press Corps

The Virtual Asset Crime Joint Investigation Division of the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors' Office (headed by Chief Prosecutor Park Geonuk) announced on the morning of April 30 that prosecutors and investigators had been dispatched to Acrovista in Seocho-dong, Seoul, to secure materials related to former President Yoon and his wife in connection with Jeon’s alleged violation of the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act.

Jeon and his family are suspected of leveraging their acquaintance with former President Yoon and First Lady Kim Keonhee to intervene in nominations and personnel appointments. Last year, prosecutors conducted search and seizure operations at Jeon's Buddhist temple and residence, reportedly securing hundreds of business cards belonging to executives from major corporations, political figures, legal professionals, and senior police officials.

Prosecutors have reportedly obtained information suggesting that not only a high-priced diamond necklace, but also luxury handbags and ginseng, were delivered to First Lady Kim Keonhee through Jeon from a former high-ranking official of the Unification Church, and are currently tracking the whereabouts of these items.

It has also been reported that prosecutors are investigating allegations that Jeon operated a secret campaign camp for former President Yoon in Yangjae-dong, Seoul.

Although the former president’s residence is a protected area, it is not considered a location that requires military or official secrecy under the Criminal Procedure Act, unlike the Hannam-dong official residence. Therefore, procedures such as disapproval of search and seizure do not apply.