Do Kwon Overturns Extradition Decision: A Win in Montenegro Court

• Montenegro Appeals Court Blocks Extradition of Terra Founder Do Kwon
• Background of the Case
• Details of the Extradition Decision
• Reason for the Rejection
• Future Implications

Montenegro Appeals Court Blocks Extradition of Terra Founder Do Kwon

The Appeals Court in Montenegro has overturned a previous decision approving the extradition of Do Kwon, founder of the cryptocurrency firm Terra. The verdict was made public on Tuesday, barring Kwon's deportation to either the U.S. or South Korea.

Background of the Case

Do Kwon, the former CEO of Terra, was apprehended and incarcerated in Montenegro on charges of possessing falsified official documents. Both the U.S. and South Korea have sought his extradition to face criminal allegations following the collapse of his multi-billion dollar venture, Terraform Labs, in May 2022.

Details of the Extradition Decision

The Podgorica High Court, in November, ruled that the legal conditions for Kwon's extradition had been fulfilled. However, this week's ruling reveals that Kwon's defense successfully challenged the decision, leading the Appeals Court to order a retrial at the Podgorica Basic Court.

Reason for the Rejection

The decision to halt the extradition was based on the fact that the investigating judge did not properly consult the defendant, Kwon, with regard to the U.S. extradition request, a step mandated by law.

Future Implications

If the courts decide to eventually sanction Kwon's extradition, the ultimate decision will be in the hands of the country's Minister for Justice.

Edited by Jonathan Stoker