'India Gas Accident' Two Korean Employees of LG Polymers Detained Locally

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Yoon-joo] Two Korean employees, including the head of LG Chem’s affiliate corporation, were detained locally in connection with the gas leak accident in India last May.

According to Yonhap News on the 8th, the Andhra Pradesh police in India arrested 12 people, including two Korean employees of LG Polymers?the head of the corporation and a technical advisor?and local employees on charges of negligent homicide and mishandling of toxic substances. They were subsequently detained in custody following local legal procedures.

The police plan to decide whether to indict the suspects within 60 days after conducting investigations. If LG Polymers’ bail application is accepted within this period, the investigation may proceed without detention.

LG Polymers is LG Chem’s first local business site acquired when it entered the Indian market in 1996. Four Korean employees were working at this corporation located in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.

On May 7, a toxic styrene gas leak occurred at this plant, resulting in hundreds being hospitalized and 12 fatalities. The police reportedly delayed the full-scale investigation somewhat, considering the state government’s accident investigation status.

The state government formed an investigation committee after the accident to examine the cause and issued a statement on the 7th pointing out that the accident was caused by the company’s management negligence. The investigation committee’s report identified 20 out of 21 major causes as the responsibility of the company’s management and recommended relocating the plant far from residential areas.

The state police launched a full investigation immediately after the release of this investigation committee’s report.

In response, LG Polymers stated, “We have actively cooperated with the accident investigation so far and will continue to respond sincerely. We will also provide all possible support in consultation with government agencies for the bereaved families and victims.”

An official from the Korean Embassy in India also said, “We are closely monitoring the situation and will consult with the Indian federal government as necessary.”

Additionally, the Chennai Consulate General, which has jurisdiction over Andhra Pradesh, plans to provide necessary consular assistance while maintaining close consultations with LG Polymers.

Meanwhile, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) of India also conducted an investigation related to this incident. The environmental tribunal is a special court that assesses the environmental impact of industrial projects and monitors companies’ compliance with environmental regulations.

Following the tribunal’s order, LG Polymers deposited 500 million rupees (approximately 8 billion KRW) in late May as compensation for damages. Experts also expect civil lawsuits to be filed by affected residents and environmental groups.

Criminal trials in India typically take more than two to three years if they proceed to the appellate level. Civil cases often take over ten years due to the large backlog in courts.

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