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South Korea’s Immigration Crackdown — A Troubling Path for Human Rights and Policy
The South Korean government’s recent intensification of immigration enforcement, characterized by sweeping raids and aggressive actions against undocumented immigrants, raises serious concerns about human rights abuses and the direction of the nation’s immigration policy under the leadership of President Yoon Suk Yeol and Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon.
The case of “T,” a 44-year-old Nepali worker, exemplifies the troubling nature of these crackdowns. After overstaying his visa, T was arrested, injured during the process, and rapidly deported without proper medical care, illustrating a disregard for basic human rights. His story is not unique. The increasing frequency of such incidents, reported by both local and international media, indicates a systemic issue within the Ministry of Justice’s approach to immigration enforcement.
Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon speaks during the National Assembly’s Legislation and Judiciary Committee meeting in Seoul on Monday. Yonhap
Recent operations have targeted undocumented migrants in places of cultural significance and personal sanctity, such as during religious services, and at cultural events, igniting concerns about the violation of fundamental freedoms like the right to religious practice. These actions not only…
