The Ministry of Employment and Labor has launched a planned inspection regarding a case of collective harassment of foreign workers at brick manufacturing business sites in Naju, Jeollanam-do.
On the 24th, the Ministry of Employment and Labor noted, "We have recognized that a situation occurred where a foreign worker was moved with brick products while being bound, threatening labor rights," and added, "We will immediately commence a planned inspection of the business site in question."
Earlier, it was revealed that A (31), a Sri Lankan national working at a brick production plant in Naju, was bound to cargo and harassed by fellow workers earlier this month, sparking controversy. Following repeated collective harassment, A requested help from a labor organization. Approximately 20 workers, including A, are reported to be employed at this plant.
The Ministry of Employment and Labor plans to supervise not only assaults on foreign workers but also workplace harassment, wage arrears, and overall labor relations laws. Additionally, measures will be taken to promote further planned inspections of business sites to prevent discrimination and severe acts against foreign workers, particularly in rural areas.
Minister Kim Young-hoon stated, "This is a serious crime that seriously infringes upon the labor rights of foreign workers, who are vulnerable members of society, and cannot be tolerated as it undermines the values of our community," adding, "If violations of the law are confirmed, we will respond strictly, and in the future, we will enhance proactive preventive inspections of foreign employment business sites to ensure more robust protection of foreign workers' labor rights."