Diplomatic Talks Lead to Repatriation Promise
South Korea has successfully concluded discussions with the United States regarding the release of its citizens detained during a massive U.S. immigration raid at a Hyundai–LG Energy plant in Georgia. Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik confirmed that the negotiations have ended and a chartered flight will soon bring home the detained workers, once final administrative procedures are completed.
Hundreds Detained in Largest-Ever Workplace Raid
Approximately 475 workers were arrested in the operation—now described as the largest single-site enforcement sweep in U.S. Department of Homeland Security history—with over 300 South Korean nationals among them. The raid targeted workers at a new electric vehicle battery facility in Ellabell, Georgia, a joint venture of Hyundai Motor and LG Energy Solution. U.S. immigration authorities cited visa overstays and unlawful work status as grounds for the detentions.
Video Releases Stir Diplomatic Concern
The U.S. agencies released video footage showing shackled workers being led away in a coordinated enforcement operation involving helicopters and armored vehicles. South Korea’s First Vice Foreign Minister Park Yoon-ju called the dissemination of the footage “regrettable,” noting its adverse timing—coming shortly after a summit between Presidents Trump and Lee Jae Myung—and its potential to strain bilateral trust.
Economic Stakes at Risk
The raid has unsettled both the South Korean government and corporate leaders. Hyundai and LG have been central players behind a sweeping $350 billion investment framework aimed at stimulating U.S.–Korean economic ties. The arrests, however, risk undermining that momentum, casting a shadow over future collaborations and investor confidence.
Domestic Response and Next Steps
President Lee Jae Myung ordered an “all-out effort” to protect Korean nationals and business interests abroad. A specialized task force has been deployed, and diplomatic outreach—including potential high-level visits to Washington—is under consideration. LG has suspended U.S. operations for affected employees and is accelerating efforts to ensure compliance among subcontractors.
What Comes Next
- A chartered flight is expected to repatriate the detained South Koreans once all required U.S. administrative clearances are in place.
- Seoul continues to monitor the situation closely, balancing urgent citizen welfare with broader strategic relations and investment considerations.
- Hyundai and LG must navigate heightened scrutiny of supply chain practices and foreign worker compliance in U.S. operations.
