Jin of BTS & Baek Jong-won's Company, JINI's LAMP, Faces Origin Labeling Violation Allegations
JINI's LAMP, a liquor company co-founded in 2022 by Baek Jong-won, CEO of Theborn Korea, and Jin, a member of BTS, has been accused of violating origin labeling laws.
The accuser filed a complaint with the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service on the 22nd regarding two products from JINI's LAMP's IGIN Highball Tonic series: 'Plum Flavor' and 'Watermelon Flavor'.
The first allegation centers on 'confusion risk' due to inconsistent labeling. While the product labels clearly state 'Plum Concentrate (Chilean)' and 'Watermelon Concentrate (US-made)', the online shopping mall listings reportedly indicated the origin as domestic ('Guksan').
The second charge pertains to the 'Watermelon Flavor' product, where the detailed product page mistakenly displayed information for the 'Plum Flavor' product, effectively failing to disclose the origin of the raw ingredients for the watermelon version.
These actions allegedly violate Article 5 (Origin Labeling) and Article 6 (Prohibition of False Labeling) of the Act on Origin Labeling of Agricultural and Fishery Products.
The complainant urged a thorough investigation and prosecution if violations are confirmed. JINI's LAMP stated that the inaccurate product information on the online sales page was a temporary error due to a mistake in uploading details for different flavors, and that corrective actions have been completed. They added that they have not received any official notification of an investigation and will provide a full explanation if requested by authorities.
JINI's LAMP released its IGIN Apple Gin, made with domestic rice and apples, in December 2024.
JINI's LAMP was established with the aim of exploring new business ventures in the beverage industry. The collaboration between Jin and Baek Jong-won brought together a global superstar's influence and an industry veteran's expertise. The company's product line, including the IGIN Highball Tonic series, aims to offer unique and high-quality alcoholic beverages to consumers.