DN Automotive stock: Lead-injection probe draws wider scrutiny
Published on 11/13/2026 at 02:03 | Editorial responsibility: Rafael Müller, Editor-in-Chief AD HOC NEWSRegulatory Pressure Builds
- Police, regulators and lawmakers are examining allegations involving chelation injections and lead exposure at DN Automotive.
- The company says it will cooperate with investigations, health assessments and an epidemiological survey.
- Further administrative or criminal action may depend on the findings.
Allegations surrounding chelation injections and lead exposure at DN Automotive have widened into a political and regulatory investigation, according to SportsChosun in a report published October 16, 2026. The report said an executive was questioned by police on October 13 over the circumstances surrounding injections allegedly given before special health examinations.
Investigations Move Beyond The Factory
The Ulsan branch of the Korean Metal Workers' Union said an analysis of health-examination data for 115 workers from 2022 through 2025 found that 99 had blood lead levels above 10 micrograms per deciliter. The union alleged that workers were told the injections were vitamin shots and that the treatment could have affected examination results.
DN Automotive said at the time that no workers exceeded the legal threshold of 40 micrograms per deciliter and that employees had chosen the injections as treatment. The company has also expressed regret that employee safety and health standards were not fully upheld.
Inspections by South Korea's Ministry of Employment and Labor at two Ulsan plants in March and April found 88 alleged violations of the Occupational Safety and Health Act. The ministry initiated formal proceedings in 68 cases and imposed fines totaling 46.2 million won in 20 cases, according to the report. Inspectors also cited excessive lead exposure, ventilation problems and hygiene-management issues on some production lines.
Company Cooperation Is The Next Test
DN Automotive said it would cooperate with government investigations, expert health examinations, safety assessments and epidemiological surveys. A committee involving nine experts recommended by labor, management and the government was also formed to examine lead exposure and working conditions.
The case remains focused on the extent of exposure, possible health effects and responsibility for the alleged conduct. The outcome could determine whether additional administrative or criminal action follows and whether the company's promised workplace improvements are implemented.
Automotive Components And Batteries
DN Automotive is a South Korean manufacturer of automotive vibration-control components, batteries, tubes and rubber products. Its company profile describes VMS products ranging from active engine mounts to electric-vehicle motor mounts, a battery business and tube products supplied from a global production network. The company presents itself as a global top-three manufacturer of automotive vibration-control parts and batteries, with operations spanning Korea, Europe, China, Mexico, the United States, Brazil and Vietnam.
DN Automotive At A Glance
- Business: Automotive vibration-control parts, batteries, tubes and rubber products
- Key site in the case: Ulsan, South Korea
- Reported issue: Allegations involving lead exposure and chelation injections
- Next focus: Government investigations, health assessments and epidemiological surveys
South Korean automotive suppliers are followed through the KOSPI.
