LG Recalls Washers Due to Safety Concerns

By Kim Tong-hyung

Staff Reporter

LG Electronics announced Tuesday a voluntary recall of some of its front-load washing machines that were manufactured before October 2008, admitting that the products pose a safety risk to consumers.

The company’s decision follows the death of a seven-year-old boy in Daejeon earlier this month, who suffocated after locking himself in one of the models that are to be recalled.

The recall involves LG’s 10­ and 12-kilogram capacity front-load washers that were manufactured between August 2003 to October 2008. The company said it has sold about 1.05 million of these models and will return the washers to the owners after adjusting the door locks.

LG said that products produced after late 2008 were produced under strengthened safety standards, which include redesigning the lock of the doors to allow them to be opened from inside in case of emergency.

Consumers can contact 1544-7777 or 1588-7777 or visit the company’s Web page at www.lgservice.co.kr to check whether the recall involves their washers.

thkim@koreatimes.co.kr