Seoul: A special counsel team on Saturday indicted Rep. Kim Gi-hyeon of the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) and his wife on charges of giving a luxury gift to former first lady Kim Keon Hee. The indictment is part of an ongoing investigation into potential misconduct involving political figures and high-profile personalities.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the team led by special counsel Min Joong-ki indicted Kim and his wife, surnamed Lee, for allegedly delivering a Roger Vivier clutch bag worth 2.6 million won (US$1,760) to Kim Keon Hee. The gift was reportedly given shortly after Kim was elected PPP chairperson in March 2023.

The investigation revealed that the clutch bag was discovered at the former first lady's home during a raid conducted by the special counsel team last month. Alongside the bag, a thank-you note written by Lee was also found, further implicating the couple in the alleged transaction.

Rep. Kim has publicly acknowledged giving the gift but has denied any bribery allegations. He stated that the gesture was merely a matter of social courtesy and not intended as a bribe. The case continues to unfold as legal proceedings progress.