According to the agency, Ajinomoto and Inglewood provided frozen meals free of charge on the condition that recipients promote them on Instagram. Some of these posts were subsequently featured on the companies’ sales websites.
The posts were presented as customer reviews, with phrases such as “impressions after trying it,” but did not clearly disclose that they were advertisements. The agency noted that this practice may constitute stealth marketing, which is prohibited under the Act against Unjustifiable Premiums and Misleading Representations.
Since both companies have already deleted the questionable content and submitted voluntary corrective measures, the agency applied the so-called “commitment procedure,” meaning no formal order will be issued.
In response, the companies stated that they have strengthened their advertising management systems and will continue to ensure full compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
https://newsonjapan.com/article/146946.php