During a state visit to the Philippines on the 4th, President Yoon Suk-yeol had a heartfelt reunion with Ariel Galac, a Filipino worker he had defended over three decades ago as a human rights lawyer. At that time, Galac had lost an arm due to an industrial accident while working in Korea and faced hardship after being deported without any compensation. President Yoon recalled how he had taken on Galac's case in 1992, successfully advocating for compensation and helping Galac gain recognition for his injuries. The reunion was an emotional reconnection filled with gratitude from both sides.

Yoon reflected on the historical context of their meeting, noting that it was an era when foreign workers frequently faced deportation after industrial accidents without sufficient recourse. He expressed his gratitude for Galac's positive memories of Korea despite his suffering, indicating that the case had played a role in prompting significant changes in labor compensation laws that now provide protections and benefits to foreign workers who experience workplace accidents. Yoon emphasized the need for treating all workers equitably, regardless of their nationality, as labor rights are enshrined in the constitution but were often not honored in practice.

Galac currently engages in volunteer work to assist overseas Filipino workers, demonstrating a commitment to improving the conditions for workers like himself. During their meeting, President Yoon praised Galac's daughter, who works as a customs officer, and his wife extended her warm wishes through a homemade watermelon juice. The story of Galac's struggles and eventual support by Yoon is also featured in Yoon's autobiography, marking it as a significant milestone both for Galac and for labor rights in Korea.