Attacker Who Stabbed Haru Invest CEO in South Korea Could Face 10 Years in Prison

The CEO of South Korea’s Haru Invest was stabbed in court during his fraud trial in August 2024.

Key Points:

• Kang, a South Korean investor, faces up to 10 years in prison for stabbing Haru Invest CEO Lee Hyung-soo during a court hearing.
• Kang allegedly lost millions when Haru Invest collapsed after reportedly misappropriating $828 million in customer funds.
• His defense argues for a reduced charge of aggravated assault, claiming he acted in extreme emotional distress and did not intend to kill.
• The Haru Invest Victims’ Association is demanding Kang’s release, arguing that fraud victims are being punished while accused executives remain free on bail.
• Kang’s sentencing is set for April 4.

A South Korean man who attacked the CEO of the collapsed crypto firm Haru Invest is now facing a potential 10-year prison sentence, according to local media reports.

Prosecutors in Seoul have requested the decade-long sentence for Kang, a man in his 50s, who stabbed Haru Invest CEO Lee Hyung-soo during a court hearing in 2024.

Haru Invest halted withdrawals in 2023, citing partner issues but without providing a clear explanation. In 2024, its executives were arrested for allegedly stealing $828 million in customer funds.

Kang’s defense claims he had no intent to kill, arguing that he did not target a fatal area and acted in a moment of extreme emotional distress after losing 100 BTC (worth $8.3 million) due to Haru Invest’s collapse.

Kang’s lawyers are seeking a reduced charge of aggravated assault instead of attempted murder, citing his severe financial and psychological distress.

Before the hearing, the Haru Invest Victims’ Association held a press conference demanding Kang’s release, arguing that fraud victims like him are being unfairly punished, while executives accused of embezzling hundreds of millions remain free on bail.

Kang’s sentencing is scheduled for April 4.