President Lee Jae-myung held a surprise meeting with Ariel Galac, a Filipino worker with whom he shares a significant history. In 1992, Galac suffered an industrial accident while working in South Korea and was forced to return to the Philippines without compensation. President Lee, then a human rights lawyer, assisted Galac through a year-long retrial process, ultimately securing recognition for medical care and industrial accident compensation. This case highlighted the need for improved protections for foreign workers in South Korea and contributed to subsequent policy changes.
Foreign workers, particularly those from the Philippines, are directly impacted by these reforms. Ariel Galac’s experience exemplifies the challenges faced by migrant laborers, including forced deportation and lack of compensation for workplace injuries. The meeting also revealed Galac’s current volunteer work, advising neighbors who seek overseas employment, and his daughter’s career as a customs officer. President Lee acknowledged the importance of equal rights for all workers, regardless of nationality, and expressed gratitude for Galac’s positive memories of Korea despite past hardships.
The timeline began in 1992 with Galac’s accident and forced deportation, followed by a year-long legal process led by President Lee. After the successful retrial, South Korean government policies were revised to ensure compensation and medical treatment for foreign workers suffering industrial accidents. As of March 4, 2026, both South Korea and the Philippines are committed to enhancing bilateral labor exchanges and supporting safe stays for their citizens abroad. The meeting was commemorated with gifts, including President Lee’s autobiography, and reaffirmed ongoing policy cooperation.
Frequently asked questions include: What changes have been made to South Korean labor policy for foreign workers? The government now provides compensation and medical treatment for industrial accidents, regardless of nationality. How are bilateral relations between South Korea and the Philippines being strengthened? Both governments are working to facilitate safer and more active exchanges, with policy and institutional support. What should foreign workers do if they experience a workplace accident? They should seek legal assistance and apply for compensation under revised policies.
President Lee Jae-myung’s meeting with Ariel Galac highlights South Korea’s progress in labor policy for foreign workers. The reforms address historical injustices by ensuring compensation and medical care for industrial accidents, regardless of nationality. Bilateral cooperation with the Philippines is poised to strengthen protections and facilitate safer labor exchanges. These developments reflect a commitment to equal rights and improved conditions for all workers, both foreign and domestic.