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The head, figurehead of the controversial Unification Church, has strongly refuted claims that her church gave luxury presents to the ex- president's wife in exchange for business privileges.

When confronted by journalists after nine hours of interrogation at the prosecutor's office, she dismissed the claims, remarking, "No... Why should I engage in such acts?"

Ex- first lady Kim Keon Hee, wife of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, is accused of accepting a pair of Chanel bags and a luxury jewelry item worth 80 million won.

Kim was formally charged last month on several counts, including graft and stock manipulation, claims she she denies.

The detention marked the initial instance in the country that both a ex-leader and former first lady have been detained.

Yoon was detained in early this year to face trial over a unsuccessful emergency rule attempt previously that plunged the nation into chaos.

On Wednesday, Han pinned the blame on a ex- member, stating that the person operated on his own when providing gifts to Kim. The official has since been arrested.

Her appearance came after declining multiple requests from the investigative body. She explained, "I was in discomfort after heart operation."

Medical support was made available throughout her questioning, as reported by sources.

Also on Wednesday, officials detained conservative lawmaker Kweon Seong-dong, who is accused of receiving 100 million won in bribes from the church. Kweon, previously regarded as a trusted ally of Yoon, denied the claim.

The religious organization, also called The Family Federation for World Peace and Unification, was established in the country in the mid-twentieth century by Moon Sun-myung, who declared himself the messiah.

The church is recognized for holding mass weddings with thousands of couples, many of which may have only just been paired by the institution.

Detractors have labeled the organization as "cult-like". Lawyers have alleged it of coercing followers, known as "Moonies" in reference to its leader, to contribute large sums of funds.

The Unification Church received significant scrutiny in the country after the killing of former leader Shinzo Abe. The alleged assassin blamed the organization for bankrupting his household and held a grievance against Abe for allegedly promoting it.

The group is prohibited in multiple countries, including Singapore and Japan.