Namgung Hoon, Kakao CEO, Indicates Possible National Assembly Appearance, Says "Adjusting Overseas Business Trip Schedule"...

[Asia Economy Reporter Seungjin Lee] Namgung Hoon, co-CEO of Kakao, has indicated his intention to appear as a witness at the Fair Trade Commission's National Assembly audit scheduled for the 7th.

According to industry sources on the 3rd, CEO Namgung wrote on his Facebook on the 1st, "Some media outlets have linked the audit with my chronic illness, but it does not affect my daily life," adding, "I am carrying out my duties as CEO without any hindrance and will continue to do so well." He also mentioned that he adjusted his overseas business trip schedule, which overlapped with the audit date.

Earlier, on the 26th of last month, CEO Namgung revealed on Facebook that he is battling diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a complication of diabetes, where prolonged diabetes damages nerves causing various problems. Symptoms include numbness in the feet, sensory abnormalities, loss of sensation, and severe pain.

Some speculated that he disclosed his illness before the witness list for the audit was finalized to avoid appearing at the audit.

In response, CEO Namgung explained, "Some media have linked the National Assembly audit with my illness, but as I mentioned, it does not affect my daily life. Coincidentally, I had an overseas business trip scheduled during the Political Affairs Committee's audit, but I adjusted the overseas trip schedule, changed flight and accommodation arrangements," adding, "I also canceled some meetings and postponed others."

The National Assembly Political Affairs Committee finalized the list of general witnesses and reference persons at the 400th National Assembly (regular session) plenary meeting on the 27th of last month, selecting CEO Namgung and co-CEO Hong Eun-taek as witnesses for the Fair Trade Commission audit on the 7th. The committee is expected to question them about the refund amounts and residual income (fees charged when recipients refund gifts after the validity period expires) related to 'KakaoTalk Gift,' as well as the appropriateness of online ecosystem support projects.