Outrage in Naju: Migrant Worker Bound to Forklift Sparks Debate

A Shocking Video Emerges

In February a video surfaced showing a Sri Lankan migrant worker at a brick factory in Naju bound to a forklift and carried alongside heavy bricks in a scene of cruel mockery by colleagues [web:3]
The footage sparked national outrage and raised questions about daily abuses in 3D industries [web:5]
The worker endured insults and laughter as he was forced into humiliating tasks that exceeded mere pranks [web:26]

Police Investigations and Legal Actions

By late August the Jeonnam Provincial Police Special Investigation Unit had identified the main perpetrator and two accomplices and sent them to prosecutors without detention [web:9]
The driver faced charges of special assault and confinement while authorities began interviewing witnesses and reviewing videos to secure evidence [web:6]
Additional investigations uncovered past allegations of similar abuses at other worksites [web:11]

Battling the E-9 Visa Trap

Despite escaping the abusive workplace the migrant worker now risks losing his legal status under the E-9 visa that requires finding a new employer within 90 days [web:1]
Local labour centres and migrant rights groups have stepped in to help him submit urgent job change applications and seek placements across regions [web:21]
The case highlights structural gaps in the foreign employment permit system that can re victimize those fleeing abuse [web:7]

Voices from Communities and Cultural Insights

Online communities on Naver Tistory and fan sites have shown mixed reactions with many condemning the violence and some debating the pressures faced by small businesses [web:25]
Migrant rights advocates stress that understanding Koreas collective labour culture and the limited bargaining power of foreign workers is key to preventing future abuses [web:33]
International fans are urged to recognize both the vital role of migrant workers in Koreas economy and the cultural biases that still persist [web:36]