The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries will conduct a special inspection of the origin labeling of imported seafood by early next month.
On the 18th, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries noted, "We will conduct a special inspection from May 19 to June 5 to establish order in the distribution of imported seafood and protect consumers' right to know."
This inspection will be carried out by a joint inspection team composed of investigators from the National Fisheries Products Quality Management Service and private honorary inspectors, focusing on major distribution sites nationwide. The inspection will target five types of seafood that have seen a significant increase in import volume and consumption, including live sea bream, octopus, webfoot octopus, live scallops, and squid.
The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries plans to focus on cracking down on cases of failure to display origin and false labeling as domestic products during this inspection. In particular, inspections will be conducted mainly at restaurants and traditional markets where consumers are likely to be confused.
If the origin is falsely labeled, a prison sentence of up to seven years or a fine of up to 100 million won may be imposed, and a maximum fine of 10 million won may also be imposed for failing to display the label altogether.
An official from the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries said, "We will thoroughly inspect violations of origin labeling in the distribution stage to ensure food safety and trust for the public," and added, "We will strengthen monitoring of the distribution of imported seafood to maintain a sound market order."