A worker from Thailand, identified as ㄱ (50), suffered significant internal injuries after a business owner allegedly shot him with an air gun at a metal plating factory in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province. The incident, which occurred on February 20, has sparked outrage and calls for systemic change.
Details of the Assault
According to ㄱ, who spoke to Hankyoreh through a translator, the factory owner fired an air gun at his rectum while he was working. ㄱ stated the owner had previously engaged in similar dangerous behavior. He described the moment of the assault as feeling like he could not breathe and feared for his life, worrying about the impact on his family’s livelihood. He is currently awaiting a second surgery after developing a 10cm perforation and requiring a colostomy bag.
The owner initially claimed the incident was a “joke” to the media, but later denied firing the air gun during questioning by police and the Ministry of Employment, and Labor. The owner’s wife allegedly told authorities that ㄱ was injured during “play” with a colleague, delaying appropriate medical response.
Widespread Abuse Allegations
ㄱ’s case is not isolated. Former and current colleagues have testified to a pattern of abuse at the factory, including instances of physical assault and sexual harassment. One former worker, ㄷ, reported being beaten by a manager in 2024 and filing a police report, but ultimately withdrew the complaint due to fear of retaliation and subsequently changed jobs. Another colleague, ㄴ, told Hankyoreh that Korean managers routinely engaged in violence and sexual misconduct.
Official Response and Next Steps
President Lee Jae-myung has ordered a thorough investigation into the incident. The National Human Rights Commission of Korea has called for systemic improvements to protect migrant workers and address the challenges faced by those with irregular immigration status. The Ministry of Labor has approved ㄱ’s case as an industrial accident, paving the way for his second surgery and financial assistance. The Ministry of Justice has also offered ㄱ support and legal counsel.
further investigations will reveal a broader pattern of abuse within the factory and potentially lead to additional charges. The government may also face increased pressure to review and strengthen regulations protecting migrant workers. The outcome of the legal proceedings against the factory owner remains to be seen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injuries did the worker, ㄱ, sustain?
ㄱ suffered internal injuries, including a 10cm perforation, and now requires a colostomy bag.
What was the initial explanation given by the factory owner?
The factory owner initially told the media the incident was a “joke,” but later denied firing the air gun during questioning.
Have other workers reported abuse at this factory?
Yes, former and current colleagues have testified to a pattern of abuse, including physical assault and sexual harassment.
What steps can be taken to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future?
