In a significant diplomatic effort, South Korea's government has successfully negotiated with the United States to secure the release of its nationals who were detained during a large-scale immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia. The chief of staff to South Korean President Kang Hoon-sik stated that a chartered plane would be dispatched to bring the detained workers back home once administrative processes are completed.
The raid, which led to the detention of 475 workers, more than 300 of whom were South Korean, raises serious concerns about labor practices and immigration policies. US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials justified the operation, asserting that the workers were illegally employed in the battery facility—a key project involving substantial foreign investment.
The White House has defended the operation amid criticisms that it could potentially deter foreign investments. President Donald Trump emphasized that ICE was merely enforcing the law against illegal immigration.
ICE stated that the workers, many on short-term or recreational visas, were not authorized to work, and described the operation as a means to protect American jobs. The incident occurred at a time of sensitive trade discussions, leading to increased anxiety in South Korea regarding potential impacts on bilateral economic ties.
As part of ongoing efforts, South Korea aims to refine its visa system to prevent similar situations from arising in the future. The incident has sparked alarm within South Korean media, with warnings of its potential chilling effect on business activities in the US.
Amid these developments, LG Energy Solution, in collaboration with Hyundai, announced the suspension of most business trips to the US, instructing employees on assignment there to return home immediately. As they handle these ramifications, South Korea continues to push for investment opportunities intended to reinforce economic ties with the US, partly in response to recent trade tensions.
