SEOUL, Sept 8, 2025 — South Korea has secured an agreement with the United States to repatriate over 300 of its nationals detained following a major immigration raid at a Hyundai electric vehicle battery plant in Georgia—marking a rare diplomatic success amid heightened tensions.
The raid, executed on September 4 at the Hyundai–LG Energy Solution joint venture site in Ellabell, Georgia, saw 475 individuals detained, most of whom were South Korean, in what U.S. authorities described as the largest single-site workplace enforcement operation in Department of Homeland Security history. The swift move by South Korea to negotiate their release reflects mounting diplomatic pressure as well as concerns over protecting overseas workers tied to major national investments.
South Korean officials confirmed that a chartered flight is being arranged to bring the detained workers home once administrative processing is completed. The presidential office has signaled that the repatriation could take place as early as Wednesday, according to the South Korean Consul General in Washington.
The United States has not filed criminal charges against the detainees, who were held over alleged visa violations and unauthorized employment. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement attributed the operation to unlawful employment practices, particularly the use of visas that do not permit work or expired status. Video footage of the raid—showing detainees being handcuffed and lined up outside the plant—sparked alarm and condemnation in Seoul.
The incident drew widespread criticism from South Korean officials, who expressed “concern and regret” over the treatment of their nationals, particularly at a site heralded as one of Georgia’s largest economic development projects. The detentions occurred shortly after a summit between President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. leadership, where both countries discussed strengthening economic ties and South Korea’s commitment to large-scale investment in the U.S.
Amid the fallout, South Korea pledged to review and improve visa protocols for business-related visits to the United States, aiming to prevent similar incidents in the future. Meanwhile, the U.S. administration emphasized its continued commitment to rigorous immigration enforcement, although President Trump clarified—both publicly and on social media—that foreign talent bringing technical expertise can be legally accommodated, especially when they help train American workers in critical industries.
