(MENAFN) South Korea’s previous first lady, Kim Keon Hee, issued a public apology on Wednesday as she presented herself before a special prosecutor for interrogation related to multiple criminal accusations, according to a news agency.

Kim, who is the spouse of the imprisoned former President Yoon Suk Yeol, is facing charges that include manipulation of the stock market, interfering in electoral processes, and accepting presents in return for potential benefits.

"I am truly sorry that a nobody like me has caused concern to the people," Kim stated. "I will come out after faithfully undergoing the investigation."

This marks the first time a wife of a sitting or former South Korean head of state has appeared openly as a suspect in a criminal matter.

Additionally, on the same day, a team led by Special Counsel Lee Myeong-hyeon conducted a search at the Foreign Ministry.

The operation is part of a broader inquiry into allegations that ex-Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup was permitted to depart the nation to avoid scrutiny over suspected political interference in a military probe regarding a Marine's death in 2023.

Authorities are examining the details behind his abrupt designation as South Korea’s envoy to Australia on March 4, 2024.

At that time, he was under investigation by the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials concerning his purported role in outside influence over the Marine death inquiry.

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