Anti-corruption body demands probe into acquittal of ex-first lady in handbag scandal

“The Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission decided Friday to request a police investigation into suspicions surrounding its 2024 decision that then first lady Kim Keon Hee's acceptance of a luxury handbag from a Korean American pastor constituted no violation of the anti-graft law. Kim's acceptance of a Dior handbag from pastor Choi Jae-young sparked massive criticism and a complaint was filed with the anti-corruption commission that she violated the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act. But the agency decided to acquit her, saying there is no related regulation on the spouse of a public servant in the act. The commission launched a task force in March this year to look into the controversial decision, after a new chief took office following the ouster of former President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed martial law bid, and the election of current President Lee Jae Myung. The probe found circumstances that then deputy commission chief Chung Seung-yun had an unofficial nighttime meeting at the then official residence of Yoon. Chung was also accused of unfair treatment of a senior commi

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