South Korean Workers Detained in U.S. Immigration Raid Return Home
Over 300 South Korean workers detained in a U.S. immigration raid at a Georgia Hyundai plant have been repatriated following diplomatic negotiations.
More than 300 South Korean workers detained during a U.S. immigration raid at a Hyundai battery plant in Georgia have returned to South Korea. The raid, conducted on September 4, 2025, resulted in the detention of approximately 475 individuals, including over 300 South Koreans, 10 Chinese, 3 Japanese, and 1 Indonesian national.
The workers were held at an immigration facility in Folkston, Georgia, before being transported to Atlanta for their return journey. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung criticized the U.S. visa process, stating that Korean companies may be reluctant to invest in the U.S. without improvements. He also highlighted disagreements between Korean and U.S. officials about the treatment of detainees, particularly regarding handcuffing during transport.
President Donald Trump reportedly intervened, instructing that the individuals be allowed to return home voluntarily, with the option to remain in the U.S. if they wished. As a result, administrative procedures were adjusted, and all but one South Korean detainee opted to leave. South Korean officials confirmed that the situation caused diplomatic negotiations aimed at resolving the workers’ status.
The incident has prompted discussions between the U.S. and South Korea to establish a new visa category to support skilled Korean workers temporarily posted in the U.S., aiming to prevent future disruptions to South Korean-led industrial projects.