South Korean salt farm abuse victims recognized as human trafficking survivors

Three men who suffered forced labor and abuse at salt farms in Yeonggwang, South Korea, have been officially recognized as victims of human trafficking and will receive government support. The Ministry of Gender Equality and Family confirmed on March 23 that the three men, all in their 50s and 60s, were victims under the "Act on the Prevention of Human Trafficking and Protection of Victims."

The men were brought to the salt farms through job placement agencies. They worked for their employers for periods ranging from three months to over three years, enduring physical abuse and non-payment of wages. The exploitation came to light when a citizen noticed one of the victims wandering on the street and reported him to the police. The subsequent investigation uncovered the other two victims.

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These individuals are currently receiving protection in relevant facilities.

With their confirmed victim status, the men are eligible for monthly living expenses of 783,000 won for up to six months, along with medical and legal support. They are currently under protection in a facility. This year, a total of 29 individuals have been confirmed as human trafficking victims, including four after review by the Case Review Committee and 25 crime victims.

The ministry has streamlined the victim identification process this year, directly confirming victims whose criminal victimization is verified through agencies like the police and the Ministry of Employment and Labor, without separate deliberation. This aims to provide faster support. The ministry stated that it is also pursuing amendments to the "Human Trafficking Prevention Act" to ensure immediate referral of potential victims discovered during inspections and investigations by relevant agencies.

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This case allowed for swift victim support through active cooperation with the police, and we will do our best to discover and support victims early through cooperation with related agencies.