Microsoft software piracy posters prompt investigation

The Korean branch of Microsoft sent a controversial letter to a total of 124,000 Korean companies early last month, warning against the illegal duplication of software, together with two posters, including one showing a rope for hanging. The National Police Agency is conducting an investigation to determine if sending of such a poster constitutes the crime of threatening.

The cyber crime investigation squad of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency confirmed Monday that the Korean branch of Microsoft enlisted a postal service firm to send the letter along with the posters and searched the two companies.

One poster illustrates a man with a red rope for hanging around his neck, and the other shows a man whose leg is caught in a big trap. The posters also carry such menacing phrases as ``now your angle may be caught`` and ``who knows such famous ventures firms are convicts of software piracy?``

Microsoft`s Korean branch allegedly sent the posters to Korean companies that are not directly related to the development or use of software -- to their displeasure. They include spinning and weaving companies.

Police confirmed that the Microsoft branch had sent 19 million won to the postal delivery company and had referred an advertisement and planning firm to make the posters.

A police spokesman said that sending disgusting posters to an unspecified majority by treating them, as criminal suspects might constitute intimidation provided by Article 282 of the Criminal Act. Those who are convicted by the law shall face a prison term of up to three years or a fine of up to 5 million won.

The Korean branch of Microsoft said that it knew that the posters were sent to the domestic companies but that it was confirming whether it was directly involved in the case and the procedure of their delivery.

Huh Mun-Myung angelhuh@donga.com