South Korean Man Accused of Poisoning Partner With Pesticide Over Bitcoin Investment Losses

The suspect and his business partner had operated a Bitcoin investment venture managing client and company funds since 2022. The man was later accused of investing company money without authorization and accumulating losses exceeding 1.17 billion won, or about $816,000, prompting his partner to take control of the finances. The case highlights how weak internal controls in cryptocurrency investing can allow business debt disputes to escalate into criminal violence.

The Seoul Eastern District Prosecutors’ Office alleged that the man, who is in his 30s, put the pesticide methomyl into his partner’s coffee during a meeting at a cafe in November 2025. The victim collapsed after drinking it and regained consciousness after three days in a coma. Prosecutors have indicted the man on charges of attempted murder and violating the Pesticides Control Act. The Seoul Eastern District Court has scheduled a hearing for March 10, 2026.