Los Angeles, California – The California Labor Commissioner’s Office has cited a Koreatown restaurant more than $680,000 for widespread wage theft violations, underscoring the risks workers face when employers disregard labor laws. The case involved dozens of employees and highlights the state’s ongoing efforts to enforce fair pay practices and workplace protections.
Citations Against Koreatown Restaurant
The Bureau of Field Enforcement (BOFE), a Labor Commissioner’s Office division, issued citations against J BBQ. Midri, Inc., and its owner, Byung Kwan Lee, operate the restaurant. Investigators reviewed the company’s employment practices and found multiple violations.
Forty-eight workers were affected by unpaid wages, denied meal and rest breaks, inaccurate wage statements, and split shifts without the legally required premium pay. Investigators reported that some employees were forced to remain on-site during meal breaks to serve customers, violating state labor protections.
The citations totaled $680,238, with $538,638 earmarked for direct restitution to workers. The Koreatown Immigrant Workers Alliance referred the case to the agency, which advocates for vulnerable employees.
Employee Rights and Common Wage Theft Issues
California labor law provides strong protections for workers facing wage theft violations, including recovery of unpaid compensation and penalties. Employees may have legal grounds to pursue claims when employers fail to comply with wage and hour requirements, such as:
- Unpaid wages or overtime: Workers must be compensated for all hours worked, including overtime at the correct rate.
- Meal and rest breaks: Employees are entitled to uninterrupted meal and rest periods, and employers cannot require them to remain on duty.
- Accurate wage statements: Pay stubs must reflect all hours worked, wages earned, and deductions made.
- Premium pay for split shifts: California law requires additional pay for employees scheduled across split shifts.
Workers denied these rights can file claims through the Labor Commissioner’s Office or pursue remedies in court, with potential recovery including back pay, damages, and interest.
Your Partner in Fighting Wage Theft Violations
If you believe you have experienced wage theft violations, you do not have to face the situation alone. Our team of dedicated Los Angeles employment lawyers provides free consultations to help workers understand their rights and legal options. We are committed to guiding employees through the claims process and ensuring they pursue the wages and protections they deserve.
Contact us now for a free case review, and let us assist you in obtaining the compensation and protection you deserve.
