Defense argues DNA from necklace's clasps and chains could prove Kim never received or wore it

Jeon Seong-bae, a shaman widely known as Geonjin, is accused of receiving a Graff diamond necklace worth approximately 62,200,000 Korean won from a high-ranking Unification Church official. The side of former first lady Kim Keon-hee, who faces suspicion over the allegations, confirmed on the 7th that they requested the court to analyze DNA remaining on the necklace. Their argument is that comparing the DNA of the person who actually wore the necklace with Kim's DNA will prove she did not receive it.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Kim's side requested the court before the trial began that day, "Commission DNA testing on the necklace's surface and worn areas through authoritative institutions such as the National Forensic Service." While Kim's side admitted to receiving two Chanel bags gifted by the Unification Church via Jeon, they denied ever receiving the necklace. Jeon had previously claimed during investigations that he did not deliver luxury items to Kim and had lost them. However, as his trial intensified last month, he voluntarily submitted to the special counsel three additional Chanel bags, a pair of shoes, and the Graff necklace in exchange for the two Chanel bags.

Specifically, Kim's defense team stated, "Administrative officers from the presidential office at the time have no memory of the necklace's delivery," adding, "The special counsel claims Kim received and wore the necklace due to signs of use, but Kim clearly states she never received or wore it." With both sides presenting opposing claims, they emphasized the need for objective testing to uncover the truth.

The defense team particularly noted, "Jewelry like this has parts such as clasps and chains that repeatedly contact the skin," adding, "DNA is likely to be detected in these areas." While acknowledging DNA could degrade depending on environmental factors, they argued that the DNA of someone who wore it repeatedly for a long period would likely remain. Though identifying the exact user might be difficult, they believe testing could sufficiently prove Kim never received or wore the necklace.

The necklace allegedly received by Kim is the 'Classic Butterfly Single Motif Pair Shape Diamond Drop Pendant' by British luxury brand Graff. Jeon testified as a witness in Kim's trial on the 24th of last month, stating, "I received the necklace from Yun Young-ho, former Unification Church World Headquarters head, in July 2022, and had my brother-in-law deliver it to Yoo Kyung-ok (a former presidential office administrative officer)." He also claimed he heard directly from Kim that she had received it.

Kim Keon-hee's Side Requests DNA Testing on Graff Necklace