South Korean Workers Return Home Following U.S. Immigration Raid on Battery Plant

Hundreds of South Korean workers have returned home. They were detained in a major U.S. immigration operation. The raid occurred at a battery plant construction site in Georgia. Their return concludes a week of intense diplomatic efforts.

U.S. Immigration Raid Detains Hundreds of Foreign Workers

U.S. agents conducted a large-scale raid last week. The target was a battery plant project in Georgia. Reports from Reuters confirm over 300 South Korean workers were detained. They were held on suspected visa violations.

Workers were seen in handcuffs and shackles. The images shocked the South Korean public. The plant is a joint project by LG Energy Solution and Hyundai Motor. Ten Chinese and three Japanese workers were also detained.

Diplomatic Strains Emerge Between Key Allies

The incident has tested the strong U.S.-South Korea alliance. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun urgently visited Washington. He sought a quick resolution for the detained workers. Negotiations were successful, leading to their release.

A chartered flight brought the workers home to Incheon airport. They were greeted by officials and cheering crowds. The presidential chief of staff was present. The event was a significant moment for the nation.

The two countries are now discussing a new visa type. This would prevent similar issues for South Korean specialists. The goal is to support Korean businesses investing in the U.S. This collaboration is seen as a positive step forward.

President Lee Jae Myung expressed concern. He warned the event might deter future Korean investment in America. This comes as the U.S. seeks more foreign manufacturing investment. The situation requires careful diplomatic handling.

The resolution of this U.S. immigration raid highlights the complex nature of international labor laws and diplomatic relations. It underscores the ongoing challenges global companies face with workforce mobility.

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How many workers were detained in the raid?

U.S. immigration authorities detained over 300 South Korean workers. They also detained workers from China, Japan, and Indonesia. The total number was just over 315 people.

Which companies were involved in the battery plant?

The construction project was a partnership. LG Energy Solution and Hyundai Motor were building the plant. The workers were employed by these companies and their subcontractors.

What was the visa issue?

South Korean businesses often struggle with U.S. visas for specialist workers. These workers are needed for months at project sites. Some were working in a grey area of visa enforcement.

How did the U.S. and South Korea resolve this?

South Korean officials engaged in high-level talks with Washington. Their diplomacy secured the release of the workers. Both nations are now considering a new visa category.

Could this affect U.S.-South Korea relations?

The raid initially caused public outrage in South Korea. It threatened to strain the key alliance. However, the cooperative resolution has helped to ease tensions.

Trusted Sources: Reuters