Investigation Details

The Fair Trade Commission conducted field investigations at the three companies — Ottogi, Daesang and CJ CheilJedang — in connection with allegations that they engaged in anticompetitive collusion in the processed food sector. The inspections, a standard step in the commission's review process, are aimed at determining whether the companies coordinated on prices or other market practices.

Details of the specific products involved, the suspected conduct and the time frame have not been disclosed. No findings of wrongdoing have been announced, and the probe remains at the preliminary stage. The commission is expected to decide on further review after examining materials collected during the site visits.

If the regulator concludes that collusion took place, the companies could face corrective orders and surcharges under fair trade law, though no such determination has been made.

The FTC declined or has not yet provided details beyond confirmation of the inspections themselves. The outcome of the review will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation.

Verdict: Mostly True