JINI’s Lamp Faces Investigation Over Origin Labeling Violations

JINI’s Lamp, a joint venture between BTS member Jin (Kim Seok-jin) and celebrity restaurateur Baek Jong Won, is currently under investigation for alleged violations of South Korea's Origin Labeling Act. The controversy arose after a complaint was filed with the National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service (NAQS) on September 22, 2025, concerning the labeling of ingredients in their IGIN highball products, specifically the watermelon and plum flavors.

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The complaint alleges that JINI’s Lamp misled consumers by labeling the main ingredients of its IGIN highball drinks as "Korean," while the detailed ingredient list revealed that the plum concentrate was sourced from Chile and the watermelon concentrate from the United States. This discrepancy raised concerns that consumers might be misled into believing the drinks were made entirely from domestically sourced ingredients. Under South Korean law, products can only be labeled as "Korean" if all ingredients, excluding water, sugar, and additives, are sourced locally.

BTS Jin, Baek Jong Won's Jinny's Lamp Accused of Origin Labeling Violation

The NAQS has confirmed that an investigation is underway, stating that if violations are confirmed, the case could lead to further inquiry and administrative penalties. Potential consequences for violations include prison terms of up to seven years or fines reaching KRW100 million KRW (approximately $71,900 USD).

BTS’ Jin and Baek Jong Won’s highball brand is reported for misleading information

In response to the allegations, a representative from JINI’s Lamp stated that all products comply with regulations set by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. The representative clarified that a temporary mistake occurred during the online product listing process, where incorrect information from a different product was displayed. They emphasized that the product labels themselves contained no errors and expressed readiness to cooperate with any official investigation.

BTS Jin and Baek Jong Won’s liquor brand responds to origin labeling controversy

The company has since revised the online labeling from “domestic” to “see detailed description” for the affected products. Additionally, the representative clarified that JINI’s Lamp operates independently from Baek Jong Won's primary company, The Born Korea, and that the distributor, Yesan Dogga, is a separate legal entity.

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The situation has drawn criticism, particularly regarding the moral responsibility of public figures like Jin and Baek Jong Won. Critics argue that collaborations built on public trust must ensure transparency and accuracy in labeling. A whistleblower emphasized the need for thorough inspections and honest communication, stating, “Collaborations built on public trust must ensure transparency through thorough inspections and honest communication.”

Baek Jong-won and BTS Jin’s Joint Company Reported for Origin Labeling Violation

As the investigation progresses, both Jin and Baek Jong Won face increased scrutiny regarding their business practices. The outcome of the NAQS investigation will determine if further legal action is warranted and what administrative penalties, if any, will be imposed on JINI’s Lamp.

BTS Jin’s Liquor Brand Reported To Government Authorities For Law Violation

• “All our products are legally compliant and properly labeled with accurate origin information,” — JINI’s Lamp Representative

BTS Jin and Baek Jong Won’s liquor brand responds to origin labeling controversy

• “If the top and bottom origin markings differ, it can confuse consumers. Clear labeling such as ‘see details below’ must be applied.” — Official, National Agricultural Products Quality Management Service

Baek Jong-won and BTS Jin’s Joint Company Reported for Origin Labeling Violation

• “Collaborations built on public trust must ensure transparency through thorough inspections and honest communication,” — Whistleblower

Baek Jong-won and BTS Jin’s Joint Company Reported for Origin Labeling Violation

This investigation highlights the importance of accurate labeling in the food and beverage industry and the potential consequences of misleading consumers.

BTS Jin’s Liquor Brand Reported To Government Authorities For Law Violation