Ex South Korean First Lady Files Defamation Case Against Lawmaker Over Her Solo Trip to India in 2018

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Former South Korean First Lady Kim Jung-sook has taken legal action against ruling party lawmaker Rep Bae Hyun-jin, accusing him of spreading false information and defamation concerning her solo trip to India in 2018. 

This lawsuit, filed with the police, marks a significant escalation in a contentious issue that has heightened political tensions in South Korea.

Rep Bae, a member of the ruling People Power Party (PPP), alleged that Kim's trip incurred undue expenses totaling 230 million won (approximately USD 166,400). 

According to Bae, over 62 million won of this amount was spent solely on in-flight meals. 

Kim Jung-sook, through a statement released by Rep Yoon Kun-young of the main opposition Democratic Party, has strongly denied these claims, describing them as baseless and defamatory.

The controversy surrounding Kim's trip has been particularly intense due to its unique nature. 

Her journey to India was conducted without the presence of then-President Moon Jae-in, making her the first South Korean first lady in 16 years to engage in foreign diplomacy alone. 

This unprecedented move was officially sanctioned by an invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a detail highlighted by former Culture Minister Do Jong-hwan to emphasize the diplomatic significance of her visit.

In response to the allegations and the subsequent defamation suit, members of the PPP have called for a special counsel investigation into the expenditures related to Kim's trip. 

The opposition, however, sees this as a diversionary tactic aimed at shifting focus from unrelated controversies involving the current first lady, Kim Keon Hee, who has been implicated in accusations of receiving luxury gifts.

Prosecutors have already begun investigating the financial aspects of Kim Jung-sook's visit following a complaint by Seoul city councilor Lee Jong-bae, also affiliated with the PPP. 

The complaint alleges misuse of public funds amounting to 400 million won during her visit to the Taj Mahal in India and suggests further scrutiny of potential acceptance of luxury goods and services.

As the investigation progresses, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors Office plans to summon Lee Jong-bae to provide more details. 

They aim to thoroughly examine all allegations related to Kim's conduct during her India trip, including the use of a presidential aircraft for official travel.

Former President Moon Jae-in has defended his wife's trip, emphasizing its importance in strengthening South Korea's diplomatic relations. 

He cited the invitation from the Indian government as validation of her role in fostering international ties. 

Nonetheless, critics argue that the expenses associated with the trip must be thoroughly investigated to ensure transparency and accountability.

This unfolding drama highlights the intense scrutiny faced by public figures in South Korea and the complex interplay between political rivalries and personal reputations. 

The outcome of Kim Jung-sook's defamation case and the ongoing investigations will likely have significant implications for the involved parties and the broader political landscape.

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