Cryptocurrency CEO Stabbed During Fraud Trial in South Korea

Lee, the CEO of Haru Invest, was stabbed during his court fraud trial by an elderly man. Lee was hospitalized, but his injuries were not life-threatening. The assailant has been arrested, and investigations are underway. Lee faced charges after suspending withdrawals of significant cryptocurrency deposits.

The CEO of South Korean cryptocurrency deposit service Haru Invest was stabbed in the neck by an attendee during his court fraud trial, police reported on Thursday. The CEO, identified only by his surname Lee, suffered the attack at Seoul Southern District Court.

Lee was quickly transported to the hospital for treatment. His injuries were not life-threatening, authorities confirmed. Lee had been indicted in February on charges of fraud after Haru Invest halted the withdrawal of approximately 1.4 trillion won ($1.05 billion) in cryptocurrency deposits received between March 2020 and June 2023.

Police apprehended the assailant, a man in his 50s, and are investigating his motives. ($1 = 1,336.9400 won)

(With inputs from agencies.)