South Korea's National Assembly has narrowly rejected a motion to investigate the First Lady, Kim Keon Hee, over allegations of stock manipulation and interference in election nominations.
This comes at a time of heightened political tensions as impeachment proceedings against President Yoon Suk Yeol are looming. The president's declaration of martial law earlier this week has sparked widespread protests in Seoul.
The First Lady's acceptance of a high-end designer handbag has also contributed to the president's declining popularity and has drawn criticism and accusations of impropriety.