Mongolian worker who lost arms in S. Korean accident secures family's right to stay

The story of Ogina, a migrant worker from Mongolia who tragically lost both arms due to a severe industrial accident in South Korea, resonates deeply within our society. His struggle for stable residency for himself and his family, after suffering such a devastating injury, highlights the precarious situation many foreign workers face.

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I was so happy. I thought it would take longer, as some cases take up to a year. The immigration office explained things well, and the office of National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik also helped us figure out a way and stayed in frequent contact. I'm happy the visa came faster than expected.

While the accident itself was a result of negligence, with the company failing to take basic safety precautions, the subsequent fight for compensation and stable status has been arduous. Ogina's temporary G-1 visa, initially granted for his medical care, meant his family's right to stay was tied to his treatment, creating constant anxiety. The breakthrough came with the issuance of a new visa, allowing his family to remain in South Korea until their eldest daughter completes her primary education.

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I still have phantom limb pain, feeling like I have hands. I go to Seoul once a week for treatment. Treatment is absolutely necessary.

This development, facilitated by the intervention of National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-sik's office and the support of many concerned citizens, offers a measure of relief. It allows Ogina to focus on his ongoing treatment for phantom limb pain and physical therapy without the added stress of potential deportation. The fact that the company responsible for his injury has reportedly changed its name and continues to operate, evading compensation, remains a source of deep frustration and injustice for Ogina and his family.

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Yes. But the company changed its name and is doing business. I heard from the lawyer that it's difficult to investigate. I must get that money from them... because I still feel so wronged.

From our perspective, this case underscores the critical need for stronger protections for migrant workers in South Korea. While the eventual granting of the visa is a positive outcome, it should not have required such a prolonged and public struggle. The support from ordinary citizens, who offered words of encouragement and financial aid, demonstrates a powerful sense of solidarity, but it also points to systemic gaps in ensuring the welfare and rights of vulnerable foreign laborers. We are grateful to Hankyoreh21 for bringing this story to light and to all those who have offered their support.

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People who donated to me wrote messages in the bank transfer, like 'I'm sorry' or 'Stay strong.' I remember those words. When I think about these people sending their thoughts this way, I keep thinking I have to live diligently.