Photo = Yonhap news

 

 

[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] SEOUL, April 29 — The police have launched an investigation into Baek Jong-won, CEO of The Born Korea, following allegations that the company misled consumers by presenting industrial-grade metal cooking equipment as food-grade metal.



The Seocho Police Department announced today that it is investigating a complaint filed via the National Petition Portal regarding a violation of the Fair Labeling and Advertising Act (FLA). The complaint alleges that from 2023 to 2024, The Born Korea used barbecue equipment made from industrial-grade metal "STS304 surface finish No.1" at regional festivals, while displaying banners and certificates that made it appear as though the metal was suitable for food use.



The banners set up at the festival cooking sites contained a message stating, "Our barbecue equipment is made of stainless steel and has passed safety inspections," accompanied by an image of a POSCO certificate. However, it is claimed that this certificate had no relation to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety’s food-grade suitability certification.



Under the Fair Labeling and Advertising Act, those found guilty of misleading consumers or causing confusion may face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 150 million KRW.



The police plan to summon the complainant for questioning before transferring the case to the Gangnam Police Station, which has jurisdiction over The Born Korea’s location.

 

 

 

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