Prosecutors Seek 15-Year Term for Billionaire Kakao Founder

In a high-profile case, South Korean prosecutors have sought a 15-year prison sentence for Brian Kim, the billionaire founder of Kakao Corp. Kim is accused of manipulating stock prices during a takeover battle for K-pop company SM Entertainment Co. The prosecutors allege that Kim used his influence and resources to unfairly sway the outcome of the SM Entertainment acquisition, which was a fierce competition between Kakao and HYBE, the company behind K-pop sensation BTS. The case has drawn significant attention, as it involves a powerful tech entrepreneur and a prominent figure in the Korean entertainment industry. The prosecutors' request for a substantial prison term underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the potential consequences for those found guilty of financial misconduct in South Korea. The outcome of this case is likely to have far-reaching implications, not only for Kim but also for the broader business landscape in South Korea, where the lines between technology, entertainment, and corporate power can often intersect.