After US Detention, South Korean Workers Return Amid Tensions

Mon Sep 15 2025 14:52:09 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The chaotic aftermath of a large-scale immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia sees South Korean workers returning home, sparking diplomatic concerns over US-South Korea relations.

More than 300 South Korean workers detained during a massive immigration raid at Hyundai's Georgia facility have returned to South Korea. Their return follows concerns from both South Korean officials and Hyundai's CEO about the implications of the raid on international investment and company operations. The workers faced detention conditions that have raised eyebrows in their home country, leading to protests and calls for diplomatic actions. The situation jeopardizes future investments from South Korean firms in the US, as companies reconsider the risks associated with working in the country under current immigration policies.

More than 300 South Koreans who were detained in a massive immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in the US state of Georgia have arrived back home. Their return comes as the country's president and Hyundai's chief executive have warned about the impact of the raid.

A chartered Korean Air jet carrying the workers and 14 non-Koreans took off from Atlanta at midday local time on Thursday. One South Korean national has reportedly chosen to stay in the US to seek permanent residency.

This incident has significantly shaken ties between the US and South Korea, whose companies are investing billions in the US, as emphasized by former President Trump.

The workers' departure faced delays due to an instruction from the White House, which prompted South Korean President Lee Jae Myung to raise concerns over potential visa complications for future workers sent to the US.

Upon arrival, the workers appeared joyful yet exhausted, quickly reuniting with their families amidst a significant media presence and even a few protesters voicing their concerns over the raid.

Their detention had sparked outrage in South Korea, with calls for the US government to reassess how it handles foreign workers, especially those who are contributing to significant investment projects.

Hyundai's chief executive, José Muñoz, noted the raid would push back the factory's opening by at least two months, as the company now faces the challenge of finding new workers.

The South Korean government has urged US leaders to support a newly proposed visa for Korean companies, signaling that without changes, many industries may reconsider their investments in the United States.

The uproar highlights deep-seated concerns regarding immigration policies affecting bilateral business relations at a time when both nations maintain complex trade negotiations.