Comment on media reports on misconduct in the Kobe Steel Group

As some news media have reported, Kobe Steel has undergone searches today by the investigation authorities in Japan in relation to the misconduct that occurred at our company. We sincerely apologize for causing substantial trouble to all relevant parties.

Kobe Steel will continue to respond and cooperate sincerely with the investigation. At the same time, we are putting our full efforts into carrying out measures to prevent a recurrence.