A large-scale immigration raid at a Hyundai facility in Ellabell, Georgia, has led to a diplomatic incident between the United States and South Korea. Federal and immigration agents arrested 475 individuals last week, with over 300 identified as South Korean nationals.
The raid, described as the largest single-site enforcement operation in Department of Homeland Security history by Special Agent Steven Schrank, targeted alleged unlawful employment practices.
U.S. authorities, acting on a search warrant, stated that those arrested were working or living in the country illegally. The South Korean government, however, expressed its “concern and regret” to the U.S. Embassy, emphasizing that the rights and interests of its nationals should not be unjustly infringed upon.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung’s office announced plans to repatriate the detainees via a chartered flight.
The incident occurred at a joint Hyundai and LG Energy Solution facility, a significant economic development in Georgia, employing over 1,200 people.
While Hyundai maintains that none of its direct employees were detained and continues to conduct business travel to the U.S., LG Energy Solution confirmed that 47 of its employees were among those arrested, along with 250 individuals from partner companies. According to authorities, the arrested workers were primarily employed by contractors and subcontractors.
The raid has reignited the debate on immigration enforcement in the U.S. White House border czar Tom Homan indicated that such worksite raids would continue, aiming to prevent companies from hiring undocumented workers and undercutting businesses that comply with U.S. labor laws.
President Trump, in a Truth Social post, urged foreign companies investing in the U.S. to respect immigration laws while also encouraging them to bring skilled workers legally, emphasizing the importance of hiring and training American workers.
U.S. Attorney Margaret Heap stated that the operation aimed to reduce illegal employment and protect unauthorized workers from exploitation. Hyundai’s response has been to monitor the situation and maintain business operations closely, although some travel plans are currently under internal review.
The incident underscores the complex interplay between economic development, immigration enforcement, and international relations.
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