South Korea's top ride-hailer indicted on transport law violation

VCNC founder denies charges as other startups seek friendlier markets abroad

20191029 ride hail south korea

South Korean taxi drivers went on the offensive Kakao's carpool app and, more recently, ride-hailing startup VCNC.  © Reuters

KIM JAEWON, Nikkei staff writer

SEOUL -- The founder of South Korea's largest ride-hailing app has been indicted on charges of violating the country's passenger transportation law, reigniting debate over strict regulations that critics say push local startups to head overseas.

Park Jae-uk, CEO and founder of VCNC, was charged on Monday with operating a taxi service without a license, following a complaint lodged by local taxi drivers.

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