U.S. Customs and Border Protection has issued a withhold release order against sea salt from Taepyung, South Korea’s largest salt farm in Sinan County, citing forced labor concerns. The farm, responsible for roughly 6% of South Korea’s sea salt production, has been accused of systemic labor abuses dating back a decade, including exploitation of workers with disabilities. The U.S. action marks the first major trade response to the long-standing issue.
Industry Impact
Taepyung Salt Farm produces approximately 16,000 tons of salt annually, accounting for about 6% of South Korea’s total sea salt output, and supplies major South Korean food brands. Although most fields are leased to tenants, the farm has been repeatedly accused of human rights violations, including confirmed incidents in 2014 and 2021.
This U.S. action places global supply chain accountability under the spotlight and could prompt further scrutiny of sourcing practices in the salt industry.
Official Response from South Korea
South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has stated that the farm’s previous tenant—linked to the violations—was evicted in 2023. While the government claims current exports are not tied to forced labor, it has pledged to work with U.S. authorities to resolve the matter.
The Foreign Ministry expressed hopes for “active engagement” with U.S. counterparts, while domestic agencies are reviewing options to reverse the WRO and restore export channels.
