A South Korean court on Wednesday sentenced former first lady Kim Keon Hee to 20 months in prison on corruption charges, ahead of a closely watched verdict against disgraced former President Yoon Suk Yeol over his brief imposition of martial law last year.

The Seoul Central District Court found Kim guilty of accepting gifts from the Unification Church in exchange for business favors. However, the court acquitted her of charges related to stock price manipulation and violations of political funding laws, citing insufficient evidence.

The sentence came as a surprise after an independent counsel had sought a 15-year prison term against Kim, accusing her of multiple offenses including bribery and financial misconduct.

Kim’s legal team welcomed the partial acquittal but described the prison term for bribery as “relatively high,” saying they would consider whether to appeal.

Trump says US will de-escalate Minnesota operation after Pretti killing

Kim has been in custody since August, when the court approved her arrest over concerns she could destroy evidence. Days before her detention, she publicly apologized for causing concern but continued to suggest the allegations were exaggerated, portraying herself as a minor figure.

The ruling was issued about three weeks before the court is set to announce its verdict on Yoon Suk Yeol, who faces a rebellion charge over his short-lived declaration of martial law in December 2024. A separate independent counsel has sought the death penalty for Yoon.