Do Kwon’s Extradition Hangs in Balance: Montenegro’s Minister to Weigh U.S. vs. South Korea

Do Kwon's Extradition Hangs in Balance: Montenegro's Minister to Weigh U.S. vs. South Korea

The recent ruling by a Montenegran high court puts the onus of determining Do Kwon’s extradition destination on the country’s Justice Minister, Andrej Milovic.

Do Kwon’s Extradition Still Undetermined

The extradition saga involving Do Kwon, co-founder of Terraform Labs, takes another turn as Montenegro’s judicial system navigates a crucial decision. The recent ruling by the High Court in Podgorica sets the stage for Justice Minister Andrej Milovic to make the final call on Kwon’s extradition destination, whether it be the United States or South Korea.

Following the High Court’s decision favoring Kwon’s extradition, Marija Rakovic, from the Podgorica High Court, confirmed that Justice Minister Andrej Milovic has the final say in determining Kwon’s fate. The court’s ruling underscores that the legal requirements for extradition to both South Korea and the United States have been satisfied, leaving the ultimate decision in the hands of Minister Milovic.

Legal Maneuvers and Appeal Process

This development follows Montenegro’s Supreme Court’s intervention, which nullified a previous extradition decision over concerns of crossing jurisdiction. With the Supreme Court emphasizing the minister’s prerogative in extradition matters, the Podgorica High Court had to reevaluate Kwon’s case, ultimately leading to the recent decision.

Despite the ongoing appeal process, there’s speculation about the likelihood of Kwon’s extradition to the United States. Minister Milovic’s previous remarks, emphasizing the importance of the U.S. as Montenegro’s key foreign policy partner, hint at a possible inclination towards Kwon facing legal proceedings in the U.S.

Background and Allegations

Kwon’s legal troubles in Montenegro started when he was arrested for using falsified travel documents during an attempt to leave the country. These allegations are part of broader accusations against Kwon and Terraform Labs, involving fraud and deception of investors during the platform’s collapse in May 2022.

Recent developments, including a civil case ruling by a U.S. jury finding Kwon and Terraform Labs liable for fraud, further complicate Kwon’s legal situation. The SEC’s legal case against Terraform Labs has officially started without the presence of the former CEO, following delays stemming from Kwon’s arrest in Montenegro and extradition proceedings.

Continued Legal Battle

Kwon’s case in Montenegro has seen multiple legal maneuvers and appeals, underscoring the complexity of extradition proceedings. With the three-day window for Kwon’s defense team to appeal the recent decision, the legal battle continues, leaving uncertainty about the next steps in this high-profile case.

As the judicial process unfolds, the eyes are on Justice Minister Andrej Milovic, whose decision will ultimately determine whether Do Kwon faces justice in the United States or South Korea.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice. 

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