Kim Geon-hee Expected to Be Discharged as Early as the 27th… Requests 'Private Investigation' in Preparation for Special Prosecutor Summons

Kim Geon-hee, who is currently hospitalized due to depression and panic disorder, is expected to be discharged from the hospital as early as the 27th.

Mrs. Kim's side has stated its intention to respond faithfully to the summons from the special prosecutor while also requesting that the investigation be conducted privately, similar to former President Yoon Seok-yeol.

On the 26th, SBS reported that Mrs. Kim expressed her desire for the investigation to be 'private' following her discharge in order to respond to the ongoing investigation.

"We will diligently participate in the summons inquiry… Requesting private summons and notification of charges."

According to reports, a representative from Mrs. Kim’s side told the media, "Mrs. Kim plans to respond faithfully to the special prosecutor's summons inquiry." However, to ensure her rights are protected, she intends to request “clear notification of charges and a private summons” from the special prosecutor. It was also mentioned that if these conditions are accepted, she could comply with the summons multiple times.

This attitude from Mrs. Kim's side appears to be influenced by the special prosecutor's situation regarding former President Yoon Seok-yeol, who faced a request for an arrest warrant due to his nonappearance. Amid increasing investigative pressure, Mrs. Kim seems to be formulating a strategy to avoid controversy over noncompliance.

Mrs. Kim's side is also reported to be in the process of assembling an additional legal team soon.

Special Prosecutor Reviewing Timing for Mrs. Kim's Summons… Indicates 'Progressing Soon'

The special investigative team for Kim Geon-hee has also begun internal discussions regarding the timing of her summons. Park Sang-jin, the special prosecutor's secretary, spoke with reporters the day before, stating, "We are continuously reviewing the timing of the summons" and added, "It will be determined based on the progress of the investigation soon."

The special investigative team led by Lee Myung-hyun is expanding its investigation concerning Mrs. Kim around the 'VIP lobbying allegations.' They are looking into whether Mrs. Kim was involved in requests for the pardon of former Marine Corps 1st Division Commander Im Seong-keun and for the suppression of the investigation. This matter is one of the targets specified in the special prosecution law.

Image source: Kim Geon-hee / News1, News1