Head of HOKA's Korean distributor resigns over alleged assault against subcontractor

A brand image of sportswear brand HOKA / Captured from HOKA's website

The head of the Korean distributor of sportswear brand HOKA has apologized for assaulting subcontractor employees and stepped down from his post, the company said Wednesday.

"Cho Seong-hwan, chief executive officer (CEO) of Joyworks & Co., acknowledged his misconduct and offered his resignation," the company said.

Cho also issued a public apology on the company's website, saying, "I sincerely apologize for causing anger and disappointment to many people due to my inappropriate behavior."

He said he will take full responsibility for the incident and step down as CEO.

Earlier, local media reported that Cho summoned the representative and employees of a subcontracting company to an abandoned church building in Seoul, where he allegedly assaulted and verbally abused them.

Following the reports, public criticism intensified, triggering a consumer boycott of HOKA products.