The Seoul Central District Court delivered the ruling in a heavily watched, nationally televised session, capping off a tumultuous political scandal that has gripped the nation.

In addition to the prison term, the court ordered Kim to pay a heavy fine and forfeit the illicit gains.

The presiding judge delivered a scathing rebuke of Kim’s actions, stating that her conduct severely undermined public trust in the integrity of the presidential office.

"The defendant leveraged her status as First Lady to engage in systemic corruption, unhesitatingly accepting high-priced luxury goods and assets that are practically unattainable for ordinary citizens," the court stated. "Her actions demonstrated a flagrant disregard for the law and ethics expected of public figures."

The ruling closely aligned with the demands of the prosecution. An independent counsel team, led by special prosecutor Min Joong-ki, had previously sought a 7.5-year sentence, characterizing Kim's actions as a structural "cash-for-posts" scheme.

The independent investigation revealed that Kim received roughly 300 million won (about $217,000 USD) worth of cash and valuables in exchange for political favors.

Among the illicit gifts was a luxury Van Cleef & Arpels necklace and earrings set from a construction chair, intended to secure a government chief of staff position for his son-in-law.

Kim was also convicted of accepting a gold turtle and a classic painting from a education official, alongside a Vacheron Constantin wristwatch from a robotics entrepreneur.

The sentencing marks a historic low point for the legacy of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, who was himself sentenced to life in prison in February for his December 2024 martial law declaration.

Legal representatives for Kim voiced strong objections to the verdict, asserting that the evidence was circumstantial, and confirmed they intend to file an immediate appeal.