Sri Lankan Worker’s Ordeal in Korea-Presidential Thank You

Jubilation and gratitude are pouring in from Colombo this week after South Korean President Lee Jae-myung stepped in with swift action following a shocking viral video that rocked both nations.

Back in February, a video surfaced from a factory in Naju — showing a Sri Lankan worker tied up and lifted by a forklift, as others looked on. The clip ignited a firestorm of outrage, not just in Sri Lanka but globally. Was this 2024 or 1924? many asked, furious over the clear violation of dignity and rights.

And then — something rare in global migrant issues — Korea’s top man took charge.

President Lee publicly condemned the act, calling it a gross violation of human rights, and ordered a full investigation without delay. No hush-hush diplomacy. No dragging feet. Just straight talk and firm orders.

Now, Sri Lanka is officially saying “thank you”.

A Presidential Thank You – Loud and Clear

Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath, not one to usually get gushy on social media, posted a public message on ‘X’, appreciating South Korea’s response and promising that justice will be pursued for the victim.

He said the Sri Lankan mission in Seoul is working closely with local authorities and confirmed that legal action is underway.

And while diplomacy is usually done quietly, this time Sri Lanka isn’t staying silent — because when a global partner does the right thing, the applause is well deserved.

Gossip Angle? Eyes on the Factory Bosses

Sources say investigators are looking into whether similar abuse had occurred before — and if a wider crackdown on exploitative labour practices is on the cards. Korean authorities aren’t just targeting the forklift operator; the heat is also on the management and company owners who may have allowed this toxic culture to brew.

Whispers in Seoul suggest the company’s license could be under review, and if things get worse, a blacklist may be incoming — which could block such companies from hiring foreign labour altogether.

The Bigger Picture: A Wake-Up Call

Thousands of Sri Lankans work in South Korea under legal employment schemes, many of them sending vital remittances back home. But cases like this remind the world just how fragile migrant rights can be.

This time though, thanks to a viral video, public anger, and a president who acted fast, justice might not just be done — it’ll be seen to be done.

And that’s why today in Colombo, it's not just relief — it's jubilation.

South Korea, thank you. You didn’t just save one man’s dignity — you made a whole nation feel seen.