Special Prosecutor Investigates Allegations of Favoritism in IMS Mobility Investments Linked to Kim Geon-hee

On July 17, 2025, it was confirmed that the special prosecutor investigating allegations of favoritism in investments related to IMS Mobility, a company linked to Kim Geon-hee, the wife of former President Yoon Suk-yeol, has prohibited a close associate of hers from leaving the country. This individual, identified as Mr. Kim, is suspected of having profited from selling shares to companies during the investment acquisition process.

The special prosecutor's office, located in the KT Gwanghwamun Building in Jongno, Seoul, has summoned Mr. Yoon, the head of a seafood distribution company, for questioning. The investigation centers around IMS Mobility, which began as a rental car company and received a total investment of 18.4 billion KRW (approximately $15 million) in 2023 from firms including Kakao Mobility, HS Hyosung, Daou Kiwoom Group, and Korea Securities Finance.

The core of the allegations suggests that Mr. Kim leveraged his connection with Kim Geon-hee to attract these investments, leading companies facing ownership risks to buy shares in hopes of resolving their issues. Notably, 4.6 billion KRW of the total investment was used to purchase shares from a company called InnoVest Korea, whose owner, Mr. Yoon, is also suspected of having a close relationship with Mr. Kim. The special prosecutor is exploring the possibility that Mr. Kim may have indirectly profited through InnoVest Korea.

Additionally, the special prosecutor has issued an arrest warrant for Mr. Kim and has initiated a manhunt, including an Interpol red notice. They have also requested the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to invalidate Mr. Kim's passport.