President Donald Trump is attempting to address tensions with South Korea following the recent detention of numerous workers at a Hyundai plant in Georgia. Reports emerged that South Korea intends to investigate the circumstances surrounding the arrest of its employees after the U.S. immigration authorities detained almost 500 workers, including around 300 from South Korea, at an electric vehicle battery facility operated by Hyundai and LG Energy Solutions.
On September 4th, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents conducted the operation, alleging that the workers had overstayed their visas or lacked permission to work in the United States. Accounts from some detainees indicate they were shackled, handcuffed, and had their possessions confiscated before being taken to an ICE detention center in Folkston, Georgia. It has not been confirmed whether all detainees were eligible for deportation, as reports suggest some were legally employed.
Many of the detained workers reportedly entered the U.S. on short-term business visas or through a visa waiver program, which allow temporary stays. This practice of utilizing short-term visas, which are generally less costly and easier to obtain than longer-term options, has been noted as being overlooked by previous U.S. administrations.
Trump has actively encouraged foreign investment to bolster the U.S. economy. Earlier in 2023, Hyundai announced a planned investment of $21 billion in the U.S., intending to ramp up production capabilities. However, the recent raid may complicate these expansions, particularly as plans for the Georgia factory have already been delayed.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung expressed strong concern over the incident, suggesting it could deter companies from investing in the U.S. Furthermore, South Korea’s security advisor stated that discussions would be initiated with the U.S. government to establish clearer visa regulations for Korean workers operating in the United States. This situation presents a challenge for the Trump administration, which has historically maintained a strong alliance with South Korea.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/778334/trump-ice-hyundai-raid-korean-workers