Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries Conducts Special Inspection on Origin Labeling of Pollack and Yellow Croaker

The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries will conduct a special inspection of seafood origin labeling and the distribution history of imported seafood from the 22nd of this month until the 8th of next month.

On the 21st, the Ministry announced that it will carry out a special inspection on seafood origin labeling and the distribution history of imported seafood. The inspection targets include seafood manufacturers, importers, sellers, restaurants, traditional markets, and online sales businesses.

The inspection will focus on whether the origin labeling is properly displayed for popular seafood items used for holiday ancestral rites and gifts, such as myeongtae (pollock), hong-eo (skate), and jogi (croaker). False origin labeling is punishable by up to seven years in prison or a fine of up to 100 million won. Failure to label the origin can result in a fine ranging from 50,000 won to 10 million won.

Additionally, the distribution history of imported seafood items whose imports have recently increased, such as live yellowtail, frozen jogi (croaker), and refrigerated galchi (hairtail), will also be inspected to check for long-term non-reporting, false reporting, and the appropriateness of business types.