Police Investigate Presidential Archives Over "Kim Jungsook Clothing Expenses" Allegations

It has been confirmed that the police, who are investigating allegations that special activity funds from the Blue House were used for clothing expenses of former President Moon Jaein's wife, Kim Jungsook, have obtained a search and seizure warrant for the Presidential Archives. The Presidential Archives stores records related to the use of special activity funds and other related documents.

According to the police on May 1, the Anti-Corruption Investigation Unit of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency recently obtained a search and seizure warrant for the Presidential Archives in Sejong City from the Seoul High Court. On April 10, the police presented the warrant to the Presidential Archives and executed it, reportedly discussing the items and scope of the seizure with the archive staff.

The police are also reported to have questioned Blue House officials, including staff members from the Second Office of the First Lady, which is responsible for the spouse of the president.

Previously, the Civil Society Committee for People's Livelihood filed a complaint with the police, alleging that in March 2022, during the Moon Jaein administration, Kim Jungsook coerced the Blue House official in charge of special activity funds to purchase expensive clothing and accessories. At the time, the Blue House stated, "There has never been an instance where special activity funds or any other state budget were allocated or used for the purpose of purchasing clothing for the spouse of the president," and emphasized that "all expenses were covered personally."

Former President Moon Jaein and First Lady Kim Jungsook attended the 7th anniversary ceremony of the April 27 Panmunjom Declaration held at the National Assembly Library in Yeouido, Seoul, on the 25th of last month. Photo by Yonhap News