Three Years Requested for Each Violation of Improper Solicitation and Political Funds Acts
First Verdict Scheduled for February 9
The special prosecutor investigating Kim Keonhee has requested a six-year prison sentence for former chief prosecutor Kim Sangmin, who is accused of giving an expensive painting to First Lady Kim Keonhee in exchange for a nomination request. The sentencing date has been set for February 9.
On January 16, during the final trial at the Seoul Central District Court’s Criminal Agreement Division 21 (Presiding Judge Lee Hyeonbok), the special prosecutor requested that the court sentence Kim Sangmin to three years in prison for violating the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act, and an additional three years in prison and the forfeiture of approximately 41 million won for violating the Political Funds Act.
The special prosecutor’s team stated, “It has been established that the defendant, who was a sitting prosecutor at the time, provided a painting to First Lady Kim Keonhee, the spouse of former President Yoon Sukyeol, who had significant authority over nominations and personnel decisions. It is also clearly confirmed that the defendant inquired about Mrs. Kim’s preferences during the process of purchasing the painting.” The team added, “Given the defendant’s conduct, such as colluding with related parties to provide false statements during the investigation and trial, there is a need for a severe punishment.”
In his final statement, Kim Sangmin denied the charges, saying, “I never delivered a painting to Mrs. Kim, nor was there any circumstance in which I could have done so.” He further argued, “It is not reasonable to believe that, just five or six months after being appointed to a position at the Supreme Prosecutors’ Office-a role that would guarantee continued career success under the administration-I would give Mrs. Kim a painting and ask her to help with my nomination for the following year.”
Kim Sangmin was indicted and detained last October for allegedly violating the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act by purchasing Lee Ufan’s painting “From Point No. 800298,” valued at 140 million won, and delivering it to Mrs. Kim’s side around February 2023 while requesting a nomination for the April 10, 2024 general election. He is also charged with violating the Political Funds Act for illegally receiving 42 million won from businessman Kim for campaign vehicle rental fees and insurance while preparing to run for the general election.
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