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Officials from the Justice Party hold a press conference in front of the London Bagel Museum’s Anguk branch in Jongno District, Seoul, on October 30, condemning the overwork-related death of a young laborer and calling for accountability. (Photo courtesy of Yonhap News) |
[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] SEOUL, South Korea — November 3, 2025 — South Korea’s popular bakery chain London Bagel Museum (LBM) has reportedly reached a settlement with the family of a young employee who allegedly died from overwork earlier this year.
The employee’s family has agreed to withdraw their industrial accident (work-related death) claim, according to a statement released by law firm The Bosang, which represented the family.
The firm said on Monday that “both sides resolved misunderstandings surrounding key issues and reached mutual reconciliation.”
LBM provided explanations to the bereaved family regarding controversies over fingerprint attendance records and alleged concealment of work logs, which the family confirmed were not the result of tampering or manipulation.
“The parents of the deceased no longer wish for their son’s death to be publicly discussed, and they have accepted the company’s apology and condolences,” the law firm said.
The bakery’s operator, LBM Co., stated, “We will fully cooperate with the relevant authorities’ investigation and sincerely accept any responsibility based on the results. We are committed to improving our working environment and safety culture.”
Despite the settlement, the incident has dealt a significant blow to LBM’s brand reputation, as the company faced heavy public criticism for its initially defensive stance and delayed apology.
Public sentiment worsened as founder Lee Hyo-jung, who sold the company for approximately ₩2 trillion (USD 1.4 billion) last July and remained as an advisor, remained silent throughout the controversy, drawing further backlash.
Alphabiz Reporter Paul Lee(hoondork1977@alphabiz.co.kr)
