Incident Overview
A South Korean man is now facing the possibility of spending a decade in prison after attacking the CEO of the beleaguered cryptocurrency company, Haru Invest. This incident, which unfolded during a court hearing, has drawn significant media attention and public scrutiny.
The Attack and Legal Proceedings
According to local news sources, prosecutors in Seoul have recommended a 10-year prison sentence for the individual, identified only by his surname, Kang. The 50-year-old man stabbed Haru Invest’s CEO, Lee Hyung-soo, during a court session last year, an act that has sparked widespread debate about the emotional and financial toll of cryptocurrency investments gone wrong.
Background on Haru Invest
Haru Invest, which halted customer withdrawals in 2023, cited issues with partners but failed to provide a clear explanation for its sudden decision. In 2024, the situation escalated when several executives were arrested for allegedly misappropriating a staggering $828 million in customer funds. This financial scandal has left many investors in disarray, leading to significant distress among those who had invested in the firm.
Kang’s Defense Argument
In court, Kang’s defense team argued that he did not intend to kill Lee, emphasizing that he did not strike a lethal area. They described his actions as a response to extreme emotional turmoil, stemming from the loss of 100 BTC—valued at approximately $8.3 million—due to Haru Invest’s collapse. Given the circumstances, his lawyers are advocating for a lesser charge of aggravated assault instead of attempted murder, highlighting his profound financial and psychological struggles.
Public Sentiment and Support for Kang
As the legal proceedings unfold, the Haru Invest Victims’ Association has voiced its support for Kang. The group held a press conference calling for his release, arguing that fraud victims like Kang are being treated unjustly while the executives accused of embezzling hundreds of millions remain on bail. This perspective has amplified the discourse surrounding the case, shedding light on the broader issues faced by cryptocurrency investors.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Sentencing
Kang is scheduled to return to court on April 4 for sentencing. As the case develops, it continues to resonate with many individuals affected by the fallout from the Haru Invest scandal, raising questions about justice and accountability in the cryptocurrency industry.
