A major fire at the Anjun Industry plant in Daedeok District, Daejeon, on 20 March 2026 resulted in 14 deaths and around 60 injuries. Following the incident, five individuals, including the company’s chief executive, were booked on charges of occupational negligence resulting in death and injury, while investigations are also underway into alleged violations of the Serious Accidents Punishment Act. Anjun Industry, a key first-tier supplier of engine valves to Hyundai Motor and Kia, reportedly provides a substantial share of its output to the two companies, raising questions about the exposure of their supply chains to systemic safety risks.

In response, the Korea Transnational Corporations Watch Network issued a formal query to Hyundai Motor and Kia on 21 April 2026 regarding their supply chain human rights due diligence practices in relation to Anjun Industry. The network cited reports suggesting that the fire was preceded by repeated and unaddressed safety risks over time, and raised concerns over whether existing due diligence systems effectively identified and mitigated such risks. The inquiry requests clarification on risk identification processes, stakeholder engagement, corrective actions, and remedial measures following the incident.