Comment on media reports concerning misconduct in the Kobe Steel Group

As certain media have reported, Kobe Steel, Ltd. is currently under investigation by the investigation authorities in Japan.

Kobe Steel once again deeply apologizes for causing substantial trouble to all relevant parties.

With regard to the details of the investigation, Kobe Steel refrains from commenting as the investigation by the investigation authorities is in progress. Kobe Steel is sincerely responding to and cooperating with the investigation.