South Korean prosecutors have requested a 10-year prison sentence for the man who stabbed Haru Invest CEO Lee Hyun Soo, charging him with attempted murder, according to local media reports.

The attack occurred in August 2024 inside a courtroom, targeting the executive accused of embezzling approximately $826 million from clients. The assailant, identified as Kang, who had suffered losses due to Haru Invest, used a 20 cm knife in the assault.

“The defendant intended to kill the victim. He approached from behind during the court session and delivered multiple stabs, but it resulted only in an attempted murder,” the presiding judge stated.

The defense argued that Kang never delivered a fatal blow, implying he had no intent to kill. His lawyers also requested leniency, citing his “significant financial losses” after Haru Invest halted withdrawals. The company failed to return his investment of around 100 BTC (~$8.3 million).

Prosecutors countered that the crime was premeditated and carefully planned.

The court is set to deliver Kang’s sentence on April 4.

Haru Invest executives, charged with fraud and other offenses, were arrested in February 2024 but later released on bail.

The company suspended withdrawals in June 2023, citing issues with service partners.