In a dramatic turn of events, more than 300 South Korean workers detained during a sweeping U.S. immigration raid at a Hyundai electric vehicle plant in Georgia will soon be on their way home. The raid, conducted by federal agents, resulted in the detention of approximately 475 individuals—most of whom were South Korean nationals—sparking immediate diplomatic efforts.
South Korea’s presidential chief of staff announced on Sunday that negotiations with U.S. authorities have successfully concluded. A chartered flight is being arranged to repatriate the workers once the remaining administrative formalities are completed. The announcement followed widespread concern from South Korean officials, who swiftly dispatched diplomats and pressed for their release.
The operation, carried out under the Trump administration’s crackdown on undocumented immigration, targeted both workers directly employed by Hyundai and many others contracted through LG Energy Solution or associated firms. Many of the detainees were found to have overstayed visas, worked on visa waiver programs not intended for employment, or lacked proper work authorization entirely.
Footage from the raid captured scenes of chaos, with workers being lined up, shackled, and some attempting to evade arrest by hiding in air ducts or even plunging into nearby ponds. The raid has been described as one of the largest single-site immigration enforcement operations in recent U.S. history and has raised alarms over its potential impact on South Korea–U.S. diplomatic and economic relations.
South Korea has voiced both concern and regret, demanding protections for its citizens and foreign investors. The incident underscores the complexities of international investment in the U.S. and highlights a need for clearer visa protocols and stronger coordination between governments and businesses. As the workers prepare to return home, both nations now face the challenge of rebuilding trust and preventing similar disruptions in the future.
