South Korea has convened an emergency government meeting and pledged full support after U.S. immigration authorities detained hundreds of its citizens in a raid on a Hyundai facility in Georgia, sparking diplomatic tensions between the two allies. The incident, which involved the arrest of 475 individuals mostly on short-term visas, has raised concerns about the impact on bilateral relations and foreign investment.
On Friday, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted a massive operation at a battery plant jointly operated by Hyundai and LG Energy Solution in Ellabell, Georgia. The raid, part of a criminal investigation into alleged unlawful employment, resulted in the detention of 475 people, with South Korean nationals comprising the majority. Video footage released by ICE showed workers shackled and wearing vests with company logos, highlighting the scale of the enforcement action.
In response, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung ordered ‘all-out efforts’ to assist the detained citizens, emphasizing that U.S. law enforcement must not unjustly infringe upon the rights of Korean nationals. Foreign Minister Cho Hyun presided over an emergency meeting on Saturday, expressing deep concern and a sense of responsibility, while the government established an Overseas Korean Protection Task Force to coordinate the response. Cho indicated he might travel to Washington for discussions if necessary.
LG Energy Solution, a key partner in the facility, announced it was suspending most business trips to the U.S. and directing employees already there to return home or remain in their accommodations. The company confirmed that 47 of its employees, 46 of whom are Korean, and approximately 250 workers from contractor firms, mostly Korean, were detained. Efforts are underway to secure their release and ensure access to necessary medications for those held.
The White House and President Donald Trump defended the raid, stating it was necessary to enforce immigration laws and protect American jobs. Trump remarked that those detained were ‘illegal aliens,’ and ICE emphasized that individuals on short-term or recreational visas are not authorized to work in the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations described the operation as sending a clear message against exploiting the immigration system.
This incident occurs against the backdrop of sensitive trade talks between the U.S. and South Korea, which has pledged tens of billions in investments to offset tariffs. The raid took place just 11 days after a summit between Trump and Lee, where South Korean firms committed to significant U.S. projects, raising questions about the timing and potential diplomatic fallout. Opposition leaders in South Korea warned of wider repercussions for Korean businesses in the U.S.
Legal experts, such as immigration attorney Charles Kuck, argue that some detainees may not have violated their status, as many were in the U.S. on the Visa Waiver Program for business meetings related to plant construction. No criminal charges had been filed as of Friday, adding to the uncertainty and urgency of the situation.
The raid underscores the complexities of immigration enforcement in the context of global business operations, with potential implications for future foreign investment and worker mobility. South Korean media has described the event as a shock that could deter economic activities, while both governments navigate the delicate balance between law enforcement and international cooperation.