Case Overview:
A man in his 40s (A) was sentenced to 17 years in prison and 5 years of probation for attempted murder after a knife attack in Songdo International City, Incheon.

Background:

A and the victim (B) met 5–6 years ago in a detention center.

They later had a falling out over a virtual asset (cryptocurrency) transaction.

On May 26, 2024, A confronted B with his wife and two acquaintances, demanding repayment.

A got into a physical altercation with B near a parking lot.

When B’s coworker (C) intervened, A stabbed C in the face and side with a knife.

A’s companions chased and beat B, but the assault stopped when B called the police.


Lower Court Rulings:

The first trial found A guilty of attempted murder, citing that he carried a deadly weapon and stabbed vital areas, implying intent to kill (even if not explicit).

A’s two companions were sentenced to 1 year 6 months and 1 year for aggravated assault (special injury), respectively.

A’s wife was sentenced to 2 years 6 months for aiding attempted murder.


Appeal Judgment:

The appeals court upheld A’s 17-year sentence, stating that even without explicit intent, he had implied intent (dolus eventualis) to kill, as he knowingly used a lethal weapon.

A’s wife, however, was acquitted, as the court found she tried to stop the attack, not assist it.


Supreme Court Decision:

On September 4, 2025, the Supreme Court (Justice Eom Sang-pil presiding) dismissed all appeals, confirming the previous sentences.


Legal Significance:

Reinforces the interpretation that implied intent (미필적 고의) can constitute attempted murder when a deadly weapon is used in a way that could cause death.

Highlights accountability even in street violence tied to cryptocurrency disputes.

Article: https://www.lawtimes.co.kr/Case-curation/212067