**Key Figure in Various Allegations Attends Second Hearing Without Comment**
Jeonseong Bae, also known as “Geonjin Monk,” who is central to allegations such as gifting a necklace to Kim Keon-hee, attended a court hearing on May 12. Despite being a key figure in numerous controversies involving favor requests, he did not respond to questions about his relations and alleged gifts.
Jeonseong Bae appeared before the Seoul Southern District Court for his ongoing trial related to violations of the Political Funds Act. This appearance in front of the press is his first since his initial court appearance 35 days ago.
He is accused of illegally receiving over 100 million won in political funds from a candidate during the 2018 local elections. Additionally, the Seoul Southern District Prosecutor’s Office is investigating him for violations of the Anti-Graft Act. The prosecution suspects he received expensive jewelry and bags from a former Unification Church official, which he allegedly passed on to Kim Keon-hee.
During a prior search of former President Yoon’s residence, Jeonseong Bae was named as a suspect in the warrant. The warrant mentioned that Bae and the former church official offered gifts related to the duties of a public official to Yoon’s spouse between April and August 2022. Alleged issues connected to Yoon’s duties include support for a Cambodian project, acquisition discussions involving Unification Church and YTN, securing a UN Fifth Office in Korea, and invitations to the presidential inauguration.
Despite the pressing questions from the press, Bae remained silent on these allegations as he made his way into the courtroom.