Do Kwon’s Extradition: Lawyer Argues for South Korea
Do Kwon, co-founder of Terraform Labs, is facing extradition requests from both the United States and South Korea. However, his lawyer argues that Kwon should be extradited to South Korea instead of the United States. Currently detained in Montenegro, Kwon’s Montenegrin lawyer, Goran Rodic, cites the European Convention on the Extradition of Criminals, bilateral agreements with the United States, and domestic laws on international legal support to support this argument.
Political Factors in Extradition Decision?
The extradition process is complicated by potential political considerations. Montenegro’s Justice Minister, Andrej Milovic, has referred to the United States as the country’s “most important foreign policy partner.” This raises questions about whether political factors may influence the final decision on Kwon’s destination. The U.S. Wall Street Journal previously reported that Minister Milovic announced plans to send Kwon to the United States.
U.S. Trial Delayed
The trial date in the U.S. federal court has been postponed from its initial date of January 29th to March 25th. This delay has led to speculation about potential motivations, including Kwon’s possible extradition to the United States. Kwon’s American lawyer argued for the trial to be pushed so that Kwon can attend.
Lawyer Dismisses Media Reports
Kwon’s lawyer dismissed recent media reports as timed pressure tactics, stating that it is no coincidence they are coming out now. Currently, Kwon’s legal team has appealed the decision of the Podgorica High Court in Montenegro. The final ruling on extradition will ultimately rest with Montenegro’s Justice Minister.
Hot Take: Do Kwon’s Extradition Case
The extradition case of Do Kwon, co-founder of Terraform Labs, is gaining attention due to the conflicting requests from the United States and South Korea. Kwon’s lawyer argues for his extradition to South Korea based on legal agreements and conventions. However, political factors and a delayed trial date raise questions about the final decision. With media reports being dismissed as pressure tactics, it remains to be seen where Kwon will ultimately be extradited. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for Kwon and the future of Terraform Labs.