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Photo = Yonhap news |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] Kumho Tire announced on May 18 that it will make every effort to fully compensate local residents affected by the fire that broke out at its Gwangju plant on May 17, while also working to stabilize tire supply.
In an official statement released the same day, the company said, “We deeply apologize for the great concern and distress caused by the fire at our Gwangju plant.”
Kumho Tire added, “Fire authorities are doing their utmost to extinguish the blaze. We will promptly identify the exact cause and extent of the damage once the fire is fully under control.”
The company also stated that it is urgently reviewing and implementing a plan to shift production from the Gwangju facility to other plants. “We are coordinating closely with automakers to ensure stable supply of original equipment tires,” it said.
Regarding the impact on local residents, Kumho Tire said, “We will work closely with local authorities in Gwangju and Gwangsan District to ensure prompt and full compensation for any verified damage.”
The company further emphasized its commitment to safety, noting, “We will strengthen our safety management systems to prevent similar incidents in the future, and conduct company-wide safety inspections.”
According to fire authorities, the fire began around 7:11 a.m. on May 17, reportedly caused by a spark in an oven unit at the rubber compounding area of the plant’s second processing building, where tire base materials are mixed.
As of now, the fire has been largely brought under control after 32 hours, nearing full containment. The Gwangju plant typically produces around 33,000 tires per day.
Alphabiz Reporter Kim Jisun(stockmk2020@alphabiz.co.kr)
