South Korean authorities have apprehended Han Chang-joon, the ex-Chief Financial Officer of Terraform Labs, following accusations of engaging in misleading marketing tactics. Charged with amassing approximately 53.6 billion Korean won ($40 million) through the deceitful promotion of Terra’s stablecoin, Han’s arrest marks a significant development in the ongoing scrutiny of Terraform Labs’ operations.
After their deportation from Montenegro, Han Chang-joon, alongside Terraform Labs co-founder Kwon Do-hyeong, known as Do Kwon, faces serious allegations. Captured for using counterfeit passports in an attempt to travel, their apprehension in March of the previous year has led to further investigation into their activities. Seoul’s prosecutors allege Han’s involvement in the sale of cryptocurrencies under false pretences, particularly promoting Terra as a viable payment method despite regulatory barriers.
Trial Revelations
According to local Asian reports, during a court session in Seoul, evidence emerged from a Terra developer indicating that the firm’s leadership was aware of the limitations regarding Terra’s use for transactions. This contradicts previous claims made by the company, further implicating its executives in fraudulent activities.
Beyond the marketing fraud, Han faces accusations related to the unauthorized sale of Luna cryptocurrency and the illegal dissemination of personal data from Chai Pay clients to the Terra blockchain, highlighting a broader pattern of regulatory evasion and privacy violations.
While Han faces legal proceedings in South Korea, Do Kwon’s fate remains uncertain. Currently detained in Montenegro, authorities are yet to decide on his extradition to either the United States or South Korea, with a decision expected by February 15th.
As the case unfolds, the impact on Terraform Labs and the wider cryptocurrency market continues to be a focal point of regulatory and investor scrutiny. The Seoul Southern District Prosecutor’s Office has yet to issue further comments on the matter.
