Fair Trade Commission Expresses Regret Over Requests to Suspend On-Site Inspections by Coupang and Hanwha

Chairman Joo Byungki of the Fair Trade Commission expressed regret, saying that the effectiveness of the investigation was weakened after Coupang and Hanwha filed for a stay of execution regarding the FTC's onsite inspection. At a press briefing marking his first anniversary in office held on the 21st at the Government Complex Sejong, Chairman Joo emphasized that the FTCrelated law is the last safeguard for protecting economically vulnerable people and small business owners. He said that, due to the court's decision, the investigation schedule was delayed by about 30 days, effectively reducing the impact of the onsite inspection. Coupang took legal action in relation to an investigation into suspected violations of the LargeScale Retail Business Act, while Hanwha responded legally to an investigation into allegations of unfair support related to trademark royalties between affiliates. Chairman Joo stated that while a company's right to defend itself is important, it must be judged in comparison with the public interest. He also explained that, unlike a search and seizure, the FTC's onsite inspections are carried out with the subject's consent, and that the investigation itself does not stop a company's sales or production activities. He added that the commission will enforce the law without discriminating against foreign companies and while upholding procedural fairness.