South Korean Workers Return Home After U.S. Immigration Raid at Hyundai-LG Plant

More than 300 South Korean workers detained during a U.S. immigration raid at a Hyundai-LG battery plant in Georgia have returned to Seoul. The workers arrived at Incheon International Airport on Friday afternoon, concluding a week-long detention that began on September 4.

The raid, conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), resulted in the detention of 475 individuals, including 316 South Koreans. The operation targeted workers at the $4.3 billion battery plant, a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution, which is crucial to Hyundai's electric vehicle production in the U.S.

The detentions stemmed from workers using B-1 business visas and the 90-day visa waiver program (ESTA) for activities U.S. authorities deemed unauthorized employment. South Korean companies have historically relied on this practice due to the lengthy process of obtaining official work visas.

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung expressed concern over the incident, stating that Korean businesses might "hesitate to make direct investments" if visa issues are not promptly addressed. He emphasized the need for technicians to install machinery and equipment, roles that require appropriate visa provisions.

In response, South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss the situation. The two nations are considering the establishment of a joint working group to introduce a new visa category for South Korean workers, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The episode has sparked public outcry in South Korea, with media outlets criticizing the treatment of the workers and questioning the trust between the two allies. A survey by local broadcaster MBC found that 68% of respondents believed the U.S. government "did not show consideration for South Korea as an ally" in handling the situation.

The workers' return marks the end of a contentious chapter in U.S.-South Korea relations, highlighting the complexities of immigration policies and their impact on international business operations.