Family representatives of toxic humidifier disinfectant victims on Wednesday criticized Oxy Reckitt Benckiser for not apologizing, despite their visit to the U.K. headquarters.

Families of the victims and activists returned to Seoul after a six-day visit to the U.K. that included a visit to the firm’s headquarters to ask it to take responsibility for the massive number of deaths and health damages.
They said RB headquarters CEO Rakesh Kapoor only used words such as “profoundly regret” and “personally very sorry” in referring to the disinfectant tragedy that has left more than 200 dead.

“Although the company’s press release said he had apologized to us, he did not use any expression of ‘apology’ to us nor did he have sincerity,” said Choi Ye-yong, the head of the Asian Citizen’s Center for Environment and Health, during a press conference upon his arrival back to Korea.

When asked to visit Seoul to sincerely apologize to the victims, the CEO did not give a response, added Choi.

Families of the victims said they would continue the boycott movement until the company is expelled from the global market.

“We have seen the same stance of Oxy for five years. There is no longer a reason to talk to the company anymore. The citizens-driven boycott movement is the only solution,” said 40-year-old Kim Deok-jong who lost his five-year-old son in 2009, allegedly from using the disinfectant.

“(We) appreciate all the support from the public. Participating in the boycott is great support to us. Until the RB CEO and others kneel down in front of the victims and offer a sincere apology, (we) will continue and expand the boycott to the international market.”

They will file a suit against the company to the U.K. prosecution after the local prosecutorial probe wraps up, they added.

They also requested the heads of the political parties to meet with them to discuss enacting a special law for victims’ compensation, holding a parliamentary hearing and investigation, and setting up a special committee to introduce relevant regulations.

Meanwhile, more retailers and consumers have been seen participating in the boycott.

Following distributors like Lotte Mart that joined the move last week, online commerce services Tmon and Coupang, convenient store chains GS25, CU and 7-Eleven, and large department stores Shinsegye, Hyundai and AK Department Store have decided to participate in the boycott movement, according to civic consumers’ group Korea National Council of Consumer Organization.

By Lee Hyun-jeong  (rene@heraldcorp.com)