South Korean Tech CEO of Wacon Arrested for Allegedly Masterminding Cryptocurrency Ponzi Scheme
Publication Time:2024-08-12 13:21:07
Byun Young-oh, the CEO of South Korean technology firm Wacon, has been arrested on charges of masterminding a fraudulent crypto scheme involving ETH. The Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office has decided to indict Byun and another suspect, Yeom, on charges of fraud. Wacon's MainEthernet wallet service experienced issues with withdrawals during the summer of 2023. In November of last year, Byun assured investors that their money would be refunded and stated that the issue would be resolved within four months. However, the prosecution believes this was a Ponzi scheme with an estimated value of trillions of won, involving approximately 500 victims, mostly elderly individuals. Byun had promised returns of up to 45% to 50% on investments and had denied Ponzi scheme allegations in the past. It is reported that Byun also runs a cryptocurrency exchange and a game business based on NFTs. The prosecution is investigating whether there are any other victims or accomplices involved.
CEO
fraud
Cryptocurrency
South Korea
Ponzi Scheme
Wacon