More than 300 South Koreans who were detained in a massive immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia have arrived back home.
Their return follows warnings from South Korea's president and Hyundai's CEO about the raid's potential impact on bilateral relations.
A chartered Korean Air jet carrying the workers and 14 other detained individuals departed from Atlanta mid-day on Thursday. Reports indicate that one South Korean national opted to remain in the US to pursue permanent residency.
The incident has sent shockwaves through diplomatic channels as it disrupts the strong economic ties between the US and South Korea, who are currently engaged in extensive investment in the US market.
The workers had faced a delay in their departure, reportedly due to an instruction from the White House, which wanted to verify their willingness to stay and work in the US.
As they arrived at Incheon International Airport, many workers expressed relief and happiness upon reuniting with families. However, protests against the raid occurred at the airport, reflecting public outrage over how the situation was handled.
Some protestors condemned the treatment of the detained workers, stating that it appeared they were treated like criminals despite their diligent work at the plant.
Security was heightened at the airport with requests from the foreign ministry to respect the privacy of the returning workers by avoiding identifiable images.
The raid, which reportedly involved the detention of over 475 individuals, stirred feelings of confusion and anger back in South Korea, with leaders like President Lee Jae Myung asserting it could hinder future US investments from South Korean companies. Lee emphasized that the normal practice for Korean firms is to send workers abroad for factory setups, and if that is no longer feasible, it could jeopardize the strategy to establish new manufacturing facilities in the US.
Moreover, Hyundai's CEO noted that the raid might delay their factory's opening in Georgia by up to three months as they seek new workers.
Concerns over the raid have been echoed in South Korean media as well, which described the operation as a significant shock, with the possibility of a chilling effect on business activities in America.
In response to the incident, South Korea's foreign ministry has urged the US Congress to consider a new visa for Korean firms, emphasizing the necessity for cooperation to repair any damage in their diplomatic ties. Meanwhile, US officials have defended the immigration operation, asserting its legality and necessity, while also emphasizing the importance of hiring Americans.
