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First Lady Kim Kun-hee’s Palace Visit Under Fire: Leaked Photos & Throne Controversy
SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA – A political storm is brewing in South Korea following allegations that First Lady Kim Kun-hee improperly accessed and utilized restricted areas of Gyeongbokgung Palace, including reportedly sitting on the throne within Geunjeongjeon. The controversy, which unfolded during a National Assembly audit, has escalated with threats of legal action over the release of photos documenting the visit. This is a breaking news development that’s quickly gaining traction, and we’re bringing you the latest.
The Throne and the Controversy
The initial questions arose during a Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee audit on October 22nd, where Democratic Party lawmaker Yang Moon-seok questioned Jeong Yong-seok, president of the National Museum and Cultural Foundation, about Ms. Kim’s visit to the historic palace in 2023. Jeong Yong-seok, who accompanied the First Lady, stated he didn’t recall specifically instructing her to sit on the throne, suggesting she “probably went and sat down herself.” Geunjeongjeon, a hall traditionally used for important state affairs, is typically closed to the public, making the access and alleged actions particularly sensitive.
The palace visit itself occurred on a closed day, with Ms. Kim spending approximately two hours exploring Geunjeongjeon, Gyeonghoeru (a pavilion), and Heungbokjeon. The Democratic Party alleges that Ms. Kim’s actions were inappropriate, given the historical and cultural significance of the throne.
Leaked Photos and Legal Threats: A Photographer at the Center
The situation took a dramatic turn with lawyer Yoo Jeong-hwa, representing Ms. Kim, publicly accusing a former Presidential Office photographer, identified as “Mr. A,” of leaking photos of the visit to the Democratic Party and progressive media outlets. In a now-deleted Facebook post, Attorney Yoo claimed Mr. A had a close relationship with a ruling party politician and warned of “legal consequences” for maliciously distributing the images. The post’s subsequent removal has only fueled speculation and intensified the controversy.
Prior to the legal threats, journalist Joo Jin-woo of Sisain magazine released a photo on October 20th appearing to show Ms. Kim and former National Education Commission Chairman Lee Bae-yong within Gyeonghoeru, further igniting the debate.
Gyeongbokgung Palace: A Historical Deep Dive
Gyeongbokgung Palace isn’t just a beautiful landmark; it’s a powerful symbol of Korean history and sovereignty. Constructed in 1395, it served as the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty for over 300 years. Destroyed during the Japanese invasions of the 1590s, it was painstakingly rebuilt in the 1860s. Geunjeongjeon, the hall at the heart of this controversy, was where kings held audiences with officials and foreign envoys, and where significant state ceremonies took place. The throne itself represents the authority and legitimacy of the Korean monarchy. Understanding this historical context is crucial to grasping the sensitivity surrounding the allegations.
Evergreen Fact: Gyeongbokgung Palace offers guided tours in multiple languages, allowing visitors to explore its stunning architecture and learn about its rich history. It’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting Seoul and seeking to understand Korean culture. You can find more information about visiting the palace on the official website.
What’s Next? The Political Fallout and Potential Legal Battles
The accusations and counter-accusations are likely to continue as the National Assembly continues its audits. The Democratic Party is expected to press for further investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms. Kim’s visit and the alleged leaking of photos. Attorney Yoo’s threats of legal action suggest a potential lawsuit against Mr. A, which could further complicate the situation. This story is rapidly evolving, and we will continue to provide updates as they become available. For readers interested in following this Google News-worthy story, bookmark Archyde.com for the latest developments.
The incident highlights the intense scrutiny faced by public figures and the importance of respecting cultural heritage. It also underscores the power of visual evidence in shaping public perception and driving political narratives. As the situation unfolds, it will be crucial to follow the facts and consider the broader implications for transparency and accountability in South Korean politics.