Title: South Korea’s Dependence on Foreign Labor Raises Concerns
South Korean exports are a staple in markets worldwide, but the nation’s increasing reliance on foreign labor is raising alarms. A demographic crisis, marked by a declining and aging population, has led to a record-low fertility rate in the country. In response, President Yoon Suk Yeol’s government has significantly increased the quota for low-skilled workers from countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Nepal, the Philippines, and Bangladesh.
The influx of foreign labor, now exceeding 300,000 workers on temporary visas, has become essential for South Korea’s factories and farms. However, many of these workers face harsh conditions, including dangerous work environments, inadequate housing, discrimination, and abuse from employers. Tragic incidents, such as the case of Chandra Das Hari Narayan from Bangladesh, who suffered a severe head injury at work, highlight the risks faced by foreign workers.
Despite the economic opportunities in South Korea, migrant workers often endure exploitation and unpaid wages. The government has pledged to improve working conditions and enforce penalties for mistreatment of workers. However, challenges persist, with reports of inhumane living conditions and limited legal protections for foreign workers.
The master-servant relationship between employers and foreign workers under the Employment Permit System (E.P.S.) has drawn criticism for perpetuating exploitation. Migrant workers like Sammer Chhetri and Hari Shrestha from Nepal find themselves working long hours in challenging environments to support their families back home.
While South Korea aims to attract essential foreign workers, concerns remain about the treatment and rights of migrant laborers. Efforts to address these issues, including improving living conditions and cracking down on abusive employers, are ongoing. However, the stories of migrant workers like Asis Kumar Das and Ray Sree Pallab Kumar underscore the challenges and injustices faced by those who contribute to South Korea’s economy.
