In the latest development, the trial for Do Kwon is set for 2026 as lawyers navigate a massive trove of evidence. Do Kwon’s criminal fraud trial in the U.S. is tentatively set for next January, giving both prosecutors and his defense team enough time to review the large six-terabyte data expected during the discovery process.
Judge Engelmayer highlighted the historic nature of the case and the complexity involved as prosecutors revealed 6 terabytes of data, including trading information and new evidence from four seized cell phones, one of which was obtained after Kwon’s extradition from Montenegro.
Considering all of that, Judge Engelmayer made an exception to his normal scheduling proceedings to allow extra time to prepare for trial. Kwon’s defense team initially suggested a spring 2026 trial, but both sides agreed on January 2026, pending any changes.
The judge noted that Kwon’s case was different from Sam Bankman-Fried’s, as Kwon had already served time in Montenegro. The trial will not be delayed further after January 2026.
Upcoming Trial to Involve More Evidence
Notably, the upcoming trial would involve far more evidence than what was presented during the Securities and Exchange Committee’s civil fraud trial brought against both Do Kwon and Terraform Labs. Prosecutors noted that data in that trial only amounted to about one terabyte of data, roughly one-sixth of what’s to come.
Prosecutors also noted that only about two of the five fraud theories against Do Kwon were presented by the SEC in that case, during which a jury ultimately found Do Kwon and Terra liable for fraud.
Do Kwon faces up to nine felony charges, including conspiracy and fraud, with a potential maximum sentence of 130 years in prison. He is currently in custody, though the exact location has not been disclosed.
