## Statutory scope and exercise conditions of shareholder's right to know

According to Article 33 of the Company Law, the shareholder's right to information in a limited liability company covers the company's articles of association, minutes of shareholders' meetings, resolutions of the board of directors, resolutions of the board of supervisors, financial accounting reports, and accounting books. Among these, access to accounting books requires the shareholder to submit a written request and state the purpose. The company may refuse within 15 days on the grounds of "improper purpose," but bears the burden of proof. In practice, shareholders are often restricted due to the inability to obtain original vouchers, and judicial practices vary. Some courts support including accounting vouchers within the scope of access to ensure the substantive realization of the right to information.

Burden of proof and remedies in judicial protection

When a company refuses inspection without justifiable reasons, shareholders may file a lawsuit for the right to information. The court's review focuses on whether the shareholder's status persists and whether the purpose of the request is legitimate (e.g., whether there is a competitive relationship). If the company cannot prove that the shareholder has a "substantial competitive business" or poses a "risk of disclosing trade secrets," it must comply with the inspection request. It is noteworthy that the shareholder's right to information is personal in nature, and after the transfer of shares, the original shareholder generally cannot exercise retrospective rights. It is recommended that shareholders clearly define the scope of inspection in the company's articles of association and retain written request evidence to prepare for litigation.