South Korean workers freed after Hyundai raid to return home

Overview of the Situation

More than 300 South Korean workers who were detained during an immigration raid at a Hyundai–LG Energy electric vehicle battery plant in Georgia are expected to return home soon. This development was announced by South Korea's presidential Chief of Staff, Kang Hoon-sik, during a policy meeting in Seoul. He emphasized that the release is imminent due to collaboration between government ministries, business groups, and companies.

Once all "administrative procedures" are completed, a charter flight will be arranged to bring the South Korean citizens back. Kang also mentioned that the government will remain fully alert until all individuals return safely.

Details of the Raid

The raid took place at the Hyundai plant in Ellabell, where approximately 475 people were arrested. Verified video footage from NBC News showed U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents entering the site with a warrant and ordering construction to halt. According to The Associated Press, most of those detained were taken to an immigration detention center in Folkston, Georgia.

Steven Schrank, the lead Georgia agent for Homeland Security Investigations, explained that some of the detained workers had entered the United States unlawfully or had expired visas that did not permit them to work. He noted that these employees worked for a battery plant operated by HL-GA Battery Co., a joint venture between Hyundai and LG Energy Solution. However, some were also hired by contractors and subcontractors at the construction site.

Reactions from Companies and Government

Hyundai issued a statement expressing its commitment to full compliance with all laws and regulations in every market where it operates. The company emphasized that it expects the same commitment from all its partners, suppliers, contractors, and subcontractors.

South Korea’s foreign ministry expressed "concern and regret" to the U.S. Embassy, stating that the economic activities of South Korean companies investing in the U.S. and the rights and interests of their nationals must not be unfairly violated.

Background on the Project

Hyundai began producing electric vehicles at the plant about one year ago, and the site employs roughly 1,200 people. The focus of the raid was on an adjacent plant still under construction, where Hyundai has partnered with LG Energy Solution to manufacture EV batteries.

This complex is considered one of the largest manufacturing projects in Georgia's history and represents a $7.6 billion investment by Hyundai and LG Energy. It is projected to create 8,500 jobs by 2031.

In August, Hyundai announced plans to boost its investment in the project to $26 billion through 2028. As part of negotiations, Seoul pledged $350 billion in investments in the U.S., resulting in a 15% tariff rate on its imports.

Government Response

After the raid, Kang stated that the South Korean government would take all necessary measures to ensure the swift release of the detained citizens and the smooth continuation of the battery plant construction project. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung directed his administration to prioritize this case.

"This happened during a major investment project between Korea and the U.S.," Lee said. "Our citizens' rights must not be infringed, and their situation must be resolved swiftly."