LG Chem Vice Chairman Shin Hak-cheol Considers Visiting Site of India Plant Accident

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Yoon-joo] Shin Hak-cheol, Vice Chairman of LG Chem, is actively considering visiting the site of the toxic gas leak accident at the India plant. Although entry and exit to India are not free due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is known that Vice Chairman Shin has expressed his willingness to personally take charge of the accident response.

According to LG Chem on the 10th, Vice Chairman Shin and executives are actively discussing a local visit to manage the accident at the India plant.

A senior LG Chem official explained, "Due to COVID-19, not only are there restrictions on entry and exit, but movement within India is also limited, so a visit will only be possible by requesting permission from both the Korean and Indian governments," adding, "If discussions proceed quickly, departure could be next week."

On the 7th, a styrene gas leak accident at the LG Polymers India plant resulted in the deaths of 12 nearby residents, and thousands of residents received treatment for health abnormalities. As a result, LG Polymers management has been booked on charges including negligence in toxic substance management and involuntary manslaughter, and LG Polymers was ordered by the Indian Environmental Court to deposit 500 million rupees (approximately 8.1 billion KRW). The Indian Ministry of Environment pointed out in a preliminary investigation that "LG Polymers operated the plant before receiving approval for facility expansion, violating regulations."

As soon as LG Chem was informed of the gas leak accident at the LG Polymers India plant, an emergency response committee led by Vice Chairman Shin was activated. The headquarters and local subsidiaries are frequently sharing updates on the accident status and countermeasure plans. It is also reported that LG Group is organically cooperating with LG Chem and closely monitoring the situation.

LG Polymers India issued a statement the day before, promising to actively support the bereaved families and victims and thoroughly investigate the cause of the accident.

LG Polymers stated, "We will ensure that all possible support is guaranteed primarily for the bereaved families and victims," adding, "We will organize a dedicated team to provide funeral support for the deceased, medical and living support for the victims, psychological stabilization support, as well as develop and promote mid- to long-term support projects for the local community in the future."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.