South Korean University Uncovers First Lady Kim Keon-hee’s Plagiarism Scandal
Sookmyung Women’s University in Seoul has recently wrapped up its investigation into First Lady Kim Keon Hee’s alleged plagiarism scandal. The university’s research ethics committee found evidence suggesting that Kim may have plagiarized part of her master’s thesis, which she submitted back in 1999 for her art education degree.
Kim received notification of the committee’s findings at the end of December 2024 and has until the end of January 2025 to appeal the decision if she chooses to do so. The committee will then review her appeal before making a final judgment.
This investigation adds to Kim’s existing legal and public issues, which include previous accusations of stock market manipulation and election interference. In 2008, Kim successfully defended against plagiarism charges related to her doctoral dissertation at Seoul’s Kookmin University after a comprehensive investigation.
The timing of this scandal is particularly delicate for President Yoon Suk Yeol, Kim’s husband, as his administration is facing various controversies and legal battles. In particular, President Yoon is under investigation for a December 2023 martial law bid, which resulted in his suspension and the unprecedented issuance of an arrest warrant for a sitting president. The Constitutional Court is currently assessing the impeachment case against him.
As scrutiny intensifies on both Kim Keon Hee and President Yoon, the outcome of the plagiarism investigation could have significant implications for their public image and the stability of the administration in the months to come.
