Bangladeshi worker assault in South Korea prompts investigation, labour inspection

A video showing the assault of a Bangladeshi worker at a factory in South Korea’s Incheon has resulted in public outrage, leading to a police investigation.

South Korea’s Ministry of Employment and Labor said on Saturday it had begun a special inspection of the textile factory following reports that the worker was allegedly slapped and threatened by his manager, reports the Korea Herald.

Media reports cited the victim as saying the incident followed his failure to respond to a manager’s call outside working hours, adding that similar harassment had occurred previously.

The incident surfaced through local media coverage a day earlier.

Authorities are examining the case, while labour groups have called for stronger safeguards to prevent repeated abuse of migrant workers.

According to the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions (KCTU), the worker holds an E-9 visa, which permits foreign nationals to take up non-professional jobs in South Korea.

Labour Minister Kim Young-hoon described the incident as a serious violation, saying violence against foreign workers, particularly when filmed and shared, goes beyond labour issues and constitutes a criminal offence.

The ministry said it would also review broader workplace conditions at the factory, including potential lapses in worker protection, according to the Korea Herald.

It added that support would be offered to the victim, such as temporary accommodation and assistance in changing jobs, depending on his wishes.

If the allegations are proven, the employer could be barred from hiring foreign workers in the future.

Police at Incheon Seobu Police Station are investigating the case on suspicion of assault.