South Korea Launches Campaign to Address Migrant Workers by Name

In a significant step towards fostering a more inclusive and respectful society, South Korea is launching a campaign to ensure migrant workers are addressed by their names, rather than derogatory or impersonal terms. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Employment and Labor in collaboration with various labor rights foundations, seeks to fundamentally change how these essential members of our workforce are perceived and treated.

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The fact that such a campaign is still necessary after more than 20 years since the introduction of the employment permit system and with over 1.1 million migrant workers is shameful, but we hope it will serve as an opportunity to spread a culture where the rights of migrant workers are respected.

The reality highlighted by the article is stark: despite over two decades of the employment permit system and a large migrant worker population, many still face dehumanizing treatment in the workplace. Terms like 'Hey, you!' or even slurs based on nationality are not just impolite; they represent a power dynamic that denies the humanity and dignity of the workers. This campaign, therefore, is more than just a public relations effort; it is a crucial intervention aimed at combating racism and human rights abuses that often go unchecked.

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This is not just a matter of casual speech habit. It is a confirmation of the power relationship that says 'I can treat you carelessly.' It is racism and human rights violations that regard those who sweat in the same space as 'replaceable parts' rather than colleagues.

From the perspective of the Hankyoreh, this is a matter of basic decency and a reflection of our national progress. We must remember that many Koreans themselves have worked abroad as migrant laborers – the 'paridok' miners and nurses, and construction workers in the Middle East. The dignity and respect they sought in foreign lands should be extended to those who now contribute to our economy. Providing safety helmets with names, warm clothing, and culturally appropriate meal options are not grand gestures, but essential acts of recognition. This campaign is a vital step towards building a society that truly values labor and respects all individuals, regardless of their origin, transforming 'cheap labor' into valued colleagues.

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If we consider the treatment our parents and grandparents wanted when they worked abroad as migrant laborers in foreign countries, it is clear how we should treat our foreign colleagues who are now by our side.