'Les Misérables' Broadcast Scene Complaint Received…Violation of Food Sanitation Act in Question

Baek Jong-won, CEO of The Born Korea, has been brought into the spotlight as the ENA entertainment show 'Baek Jong-won's Les Misérables' may face an investigation by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS). This arises from a complaint regarding the large cooking equipment used in the broadcast, which is alleged to violate the Food Sanitation Act.

According to the MFDS on the 12th, a viewer recently submitted a complaint stating, "Metal cooking utensils that have not undergone safety inspections for food use were used in the broadcast."

The problematic scene appears in the fifth episode of the program, where CEO Baek is seen educating participants on making pork belly using a giant cauldron he created.

The complainant argued, "This cauldron is not suitable for food preparation or sale and violates the standards set by relevant regulations for food equipment." They expressed concern that "since the program is highly consumable as a small business content by the public, exposure to unverified cooking equipment could lead to misconceptions about public health."

Used at YouTube, Festivals, and Events…From Cauldron Creation to Exposure

The controversial cauldron was previously unveiled by CEO Baek through the production process on his YouTube channel 'Chukjibap'. The cauldron featured in the broadcast is enormous enough to fit two and a half pigs simultaneously, with visible welding marks clearly displayed on screen.

This cooking equipment is not limited to appearances solely on 'Les Misérables.' CEO Baek has utilized this cauldron at various local festivals and external events. After the complaint was filed, some viewers remarked, "Even if it is not for commercial purposes, the broadcast is consumed as a standard for cooking methods, so more caution should have been exercised."

14 Investigations Underway for The Born Korea…Broadcast Suspension Declared Amidst Controversy

Meanwhile, a police agency spokesperson disclosed at a press conference earlier this morning, "A total of 14 cases related to The Born Korea, including violations of the labeling and advertising laws for food and the Food Sanitation Act, have been received and are under investigation."

CEO Baek has recently been embroiled in a series of controversies, including the pricing controversy over the 'Baek Ham Gift Set', allegations of violating the Farmland Act with 'Baekseok Doenjang', and allegations of false origin labeling, as well as accusations regarding a blacklist of employees. Additionally, suspicions surrounding The Born Korea's interview practices, alleged interference with participant exits, and issues of workplace power abuse have further soured public opinion.

Ultimately, on the 6th, CEO Baek announced, "I will cease all broadcasting activities," bowing his head in an official apology. If the MFDS investigation proceeds, the controversies surrounding Baek Jong-won and 'Les Misérables' will face yet another test.

Image Source: ENA 'Baek Jong-won's Les Misérables', YouTube 'Baek Jong-won Paik Jong Won'