Prosecutors File Aggressive Sentencing Request The special counsel team led by Min Joong‑ki asked the court to impose an eight‑year prison sentence and a 430 million‑won forfeiture on Kim Ye‑seong, the former first lady’s associate [1]. Kim was indicted in August on embezzlement charges involving 2.43 billion won taken from IMS Mobility, a car‑rental firm he helped launch with CEO Jo Young‑tak [1]. The request reflects the prosecution’s view that the alleged theft warrants a severe penalty [1].

Large Private‑Equity Investments Linked to the Scheme Prosecutors allege that IMS Mobility received roughly 18.4 billion won in 2023 from Kakao Mobility Corp. and Shinhan Bank through a private‑equity vehicle [1]. They claim the investments were tied to Kim and, by extension, to the former first lady’s circle, suggesting a broader financial network [1]. The article does not provide independent verification of these connections beyond the prosecutors’ statements [1].

Misappropriated Funds Used for Real Estate and Stocks The special counsel reports that the embezzled proceeds funded personal real‑estate purchases and about 3 billion won in stock acquisitions [1]. This allocation of funds underscores the personal benefit derived from the alleged scheme [1]. The details of the properties and specific stock holdings were not disclosed in the filing [1].

No Direct Evidence Tying Former First Lady The prosecution explicitly states that it has not confirmed any direct link between Kim’s alleged embezzlement and the former first lady [1]. This disclaimer separates the legal case against Kim from any potential political ramifications [1]. The article emphasizes the lack of concrete evidence connecting the former first lady to the financial misconduct [1].