Singer MC Mong (real name Shin Dong-hyun, 44) complained of "trial trauma" and was questioned as a w.. - MK

Witness Testimony via Video in Cryptocurrency Bribery Trial

Seoul, South Korea - In a highly publicized trial unfolding at the Seoul Southern District Court's Criminal Agreement Department 11, renowned South Korean singer MC Mong (real name Shin Dong-hyun, age 44) provided testimony as a witness via a live video broadcast due to "trial trauma."

The trial centers on allegations that former Bithumb Holdings CEO Lee Sang-joon and professional golfer Ahn Sung-hyun received 3 billion won (approximately $2.3 million) in cash from Kang Jong-hyun, the supposed actual owner of Bithumb, in exchange for listing cryptocurrency coins on the company's exchange between September and November 2021.

Initially summoned for in-person testimony, MC Mong repeatedly declined, citing severe trial trauma stemming from a separate three-year military corruption case. The court imposed a 6 million won fine for his non-attendance, warning that an arrest warrant would be issued if he failed to appear on a subsequent date.

Subsequently, MC Mong filed a petition requesting a video witness examination, asserting that his interpersonal phobia and panic disorder hindered his ability to attend in person. The court granted his request, facilitating his testimony through real-time video broadcast.

The use of video trials has become increasingly prevalent in South Korean courts since its expansion in late 2021 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the National Court Administration, the number of video trials has surged from just 18 in November 2021 to over 3,000 per month.

While video trials are typically utilized for victims of sexual crimes or children, a former judge who now practices law explained that the court is amenable to such arrangements if the witness demonstrates difficulty testifying in the presence of numerous attendees and is not the defendant in the case.

MC Mong's testimony is expected to play a crucial role in unraveling the truth behind the alleged cryptocurrency bribery scheme and its potential impact on the South Korean digital asset industry. The trial remains ongoing, with further witness examinations and evidentiary presentations anticipated in the coming weeks.