Special Prosecutors Seek Prison Sentence for Businessman Who Gave Luxury Watch to Kim Keon-hee

"Signed Contract Based on Personal Ties with Kim Keon-hee"

Robot dog entrepreneur Sungbin Seo, who was put on trial for providing a luxury watch to First Lady Kim Keon-hee in exchange for favors related to his business, has received a prison sentence recommendation.

On May 13, the special prosecution team, led by Min Jung-ki, requested a sentence of one year and six months in prison for Seo during the final hearing for the case of violating the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act, held at the 21st Criminal Division of the Seoul Central District Court (Presiding Judge Cho Soon-pyo). The special prosecutors stated, "Sungbin Seo signed an exclusive distribution contract with Ghost Robotics and entered into a lease agreement with the Presidential Security Service, leveraging his personal connection with Kim Keon-hee. His business operated on the basis of his relationship and influence with the presidential couple."

Seo's legal team pleaded for his acquittal in their closing arguments, claiming that the watch was purchased on behalf of Mrs. Kim at her request and that it was not an act of solicitation. Seo also stated in his final remarks, "I may not have lived a flawless life, but I have never begged, asked for favors, or flattered anyone."

Previously, in December of last year, Seo was indicted for allegedly providing Mrs. Kim with a Vacheron wristwatch worth 39.9 million won in September 2022 in exchange for business-related favors.

The final hearing for Mrs. Kim regarding these allegations of influence peddling is scheduled for May 15. The verdicts for Mrs. Kim and the individuals who provided valuables will be delivered on June 26.