Classical singer Kim Jung-sook served as the First Lady of South Korea from 2017 to 2022. During her tenure, she focused on social outreach for minority groups, including the elderly, single-parent families, and individuals with disabilities. Her time in public office frequently intersected with cultural events and foreign state visits conducted alongside her husband, President Moon Jae-in.
Early Career and Education
Born in Seoul in 1954, Kim attended Sookmyung Girls' Middle School and Sookmyung Girls' High School before pursuing higher education at Kyung Hee University. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in vocal music, which supported her professional work as an opera singer. Between 1978 and 1982, she was a member of the Seoul Metropolitan Chorus.
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Known as the "Jolly Lady" during the 2017 presidential campaign, Kim faced scrutiny regarding the financing of her wardrobe during her time as first lady. Allegations regarding the use of public funds for personal apparel led to lawsuits from the Korea Taxpayers Association. Additionally, a 2018 solo trip to the Taj Mahal and the handling of a Chanel jacket from a French state visit prompted investigations; however, prosecutors dropped these cases in 2025 due to insufficient evidence.
Residency at the Blue House
While living in the presidential residence, Kim and her husband maintained a collection of animals, including cats and dogs adopted from various sources. The couple notably cared for mixed-breed dogs and Pungsan dogs received during the 2018 Inter-Korean Summit. These animals frequently appeared in media coverage, with the household hosting Gomi and Songgang alongside their offspring.
Official Recognitions
Kim received multiple international honours for her diplomatic presence. These included the Grand Cross of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit in 2019, the Commander Grand Cross of the Royal Order of the Polar Star from Sweden, and the Dame Grand Cross of the Order of Civil Merit from Spain in 2021. In June 2021, she also received the Grand Decoration of Honour in Gold with Sash from Austria. In May 2022, she was awarded the Grand Order of Mugunghwa by the South Korean government.
Fast facts
- Born: 1954, Seoul
- First Lady of South Korea: 2017-2022
- Education: Kyung Hee University
- Seoul Metropolitan Chorus tenure: 1978-1982
- Spouse: Moon Jae-in
- Foreign language proficiency: English, Korean
Questions readers ask
What was Kim Jung-sook's profession before becoming First Lady?
She was a classical opera singer who performed with the Seoul Metropolitan Chorus.
Did Kim Jung-sook receive any foreign honours?
Yes, she received honours from Spain, Austria, Norway, and Sweden between 2019 and 2021.
Achievements
- Dame Grand Cross of the Order of Civil Merit (Spain) — 2021
- Instruments: voice
