Recently, Theborn Korea, which was embroiled in controversy over its origins, has once again been caught up in an origin labeling controversy.
According to industry sources on the 12th, Theborn Korea promoted that the ‘Hanshin Pocha stir-fried octopus’ sold in its online shopping mall, Theborn Mall, was made with domestic garlic. However, it was found that the raw materials included Chinese garlic. While the promotional page for the product stated that green onion, onion, and garlic were domestic, the actual ingredient list specified that the garlic was from China. Following this revelation, sales of the Hanshin Pocha stir-fried octopus have been halted on Theborn Mall.
A representative from Theborn Korea said, “There was no issue with the product's labeling itself, but there was a minor labeling error during the production of the detailed product information page online. We are currently correcting the error and sincerely apologize for the confusion caused to consumers.”
Earlier, ‘Baek Jong-won's Baeksok fermented soybean paste’ also promoted the use of domestic ingredients while emphasizing traditional Korean manufacturing methods. However, it has been revealed that it actually contained Chinese processed soybean blocks and imported soybean flour. The plant producing this product is located in an agricultural promotion zone, where it is required to primarily use domestic agricultural products as raw materials. Violating this regulation can lead to punishment under the Agricultural Land Act.
As the controversy spread, Theborn Korea stated, “We apologize for using imported raw materials while not fully recognizing the regulations,” and added, “We are reviewing measures to adjust production methods and ensure compliance with the law.” In addition, Theborn Korea has faced controversies surrounding its subsidiary franchise, Andong Pork Cutlet, regarding the citrus content in the beer ‘Citrus Rise’ and issues related to the ‘Baek Ham Set’ and ‘Brazilian chicken meal kit.’