​In return for the assistance, prosecutors have alleged Samsung Group chief Lee Jae Yong received political favours and government support for a merger of two Samsung affiliates in 2015, which helped Lee cement his control of the group after the hospitalisation of his father, former Samsung Group chief Lee Kun Hee.

Lee, held in detention and on a separate trial, has also denied wrongdoing.

Lee Kyung Jae, a lawyer for Choi who is likely to represent Chung, said of Choi: "As a mother, she is worried about the circumstances that her daughter will now face back in the country."

Chung faces charges that include criminal interference related to her academic record and acceptance into a competitive women's university with questionable qualifications.

Her entrance to the school and high school diploma were subsequently cancelled after authorities found Chung's high school attendance and test grades had been fabricated, sparking a public furore.

Prior to Chung's arrival on Wednesday, prosecutors asked the court to jail her mother for seven years for conspiring with school officials to forge her daughter's academic record.

Prosecutors are expected to seek a warrant to keep Chung in a holding cell as they can only detain her for 48 hours following Wednesday's arrest.