Shortly after Baek Jong-won apologized for safety rule violations, he directly apologized for allegations that he violated the Farmland Act by producing products using foreign materials and supplies.
Earlier, there were allegations that 'Baek Jong-won's Baeksok soybean paste' was produced using foreign materials and supplies in an agricultural promotion zone where only domestic agricultural products can be processed and produced. The relevant materials and supplies included Chinese improved soybean paste, U.S. and Canadian soybeans, and U.S. and Australian flour.
As a result, on the 13th, a report was received alleging that Theborn Korea violated the Origin Marking Act, and the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service (NAQS) in Seoul also began investigating the incident. In this regard, on the same day, Baek Jong-won, CEO of Theborn Korea, issued an apology through the official website. Baek Jong-won noted, "I sincerely apologize for causing concern to many due to various issues related to Theborn Korea, which I represent, and I feel a deep sense of responsibility."
At the same time, Baek Jong-won said, "We should have repaid your love and support with a better appearance and products, but there were many shortcomings in meeting those expectations," and added, "I deeply regret the unacceptable mistakes that occurred during the production and distribution processes."
Most importantly, in May of last year, a video titled "We made this into a menu" was posted on Baek Jong-won's YouTube channel, featuring Baek Jong-won conducting a menu development test for 'Baeksbier' using a frying machine. However, some expressed concerns about Baek Jong-won cooking chicken bones in hot oil next to an LPG gas tank installed in the kitchen. In fact, an internet user filed a complaint with the National Petition Service, stating that Baek Jong-won violated both the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Act and safety rules set by firefighting authorities.
In relation to this, Baek Jong-won's side left a direct comment on the video on the 3rd. Baek Jong-won said, "I apologize for causing concern regarding the video. I should have been more thorough with safety rules and management, but there were shortcomings."
He further explained, "The video was filmed to test equipment developed for the festival, and the menu test lasted about 15 minutes, during which exhaust facilities were operated to ensure sufficient ventilation. We had K-class fire extinguishers on site, and two gas safety managers accompanied us for inspection before proceeding, and all related equipment was removed after filming."
However, less than a month later, upon facing another issue, Baek Jong-won stated, "It was my fault for not thoroughly examining all the issues raised so far," adding, "I humbly accept the criticisms directed at me and promise to quickly improve all matters, including legal issues. Moreover, I will lead company-wide innovation and growth to meet the expectations of our shareholders as a listed company." He concluded, "I sincerely apologize once again to everyone who continues to show interest and expectations for me and the company."
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