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South Korea Opens Antitrust Probe Into Major Retail Chains

By  |  April 20, 2026

South Korea’s competition regulator has begun an investigation into two of the country’s largest retail operators over suspected breaches of distribution regulations, according to a statement from industry sources on Monday.

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    The Korea Fair Trade Commission has dispatched officials to examine the headquarters of CJ Olive Young, a leading health and beauty retailer, as well as Asung Daiso, which operates the nationwide discount chain Daiso. The move is part of an effort to determine whether the companies complied with rules governing large-scale retail businesses, according to a statement from sources familiar with the matter.

    The probe centers on potential violations of South Korea’s Act on Fair Transactions in Large Retail Business, which is designed to ensure fair dealings between major retailers and their suppliers. Authorities are reviewing business practices at both companies as part of the investigation, per a statement.

    Read more: South Korea Fines Pork Processors for Price-Fixing in Retail Supply Deals

    Representatives from CJ Olive Young and Asung Daiso indicated that they believe the inspection is not targeted at specific wrongdoing but is instead part of a wider regulatory review. According to a statement from company officials, the investigation appears to be linked to a broader effort by regulators to assess overall compliance with retail laws.

    The Fair Trade Commission has not publicly disclosed further details about the scope or timeline of the investigation.

    Source: Korea JoongAng Daily