More than 300 South Korean citizens were detained during a large-scale immigration raid at a Hyundai electric vehicle plant in Georgia. US authorities said 475 individuals were taken into custody for alleged visa violations at the site, which is among the largest foreign investment projects in the state.

South Korean and Indonesian Nationals Among Hundreds Detained

The US Department of Homeland Security conducted the operation at the Hyundai Metaplant, where construction is underway. The facility is a joint venture between Hyundai and LG Energy Solution.

Most of the workers arrested were mechanics installing production lines, and many were hired by contractors. A smaller group had been sent from South Korea’s head office for training.

Indonesian National Detained on Business Trip

Among those detained was an Indonesian national, identified by the initials CHT, who was visiting the Hyundai Metaplant on a business trip. According to Indonesia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, CHT held valid travel documents including a passport, visa, and a company invitation.

The Indonesian Consulate in Houston confirmed that CHT was detained alongside hundreds of other workers, mostly South Korean nationals. The Consulate is coordinating with the ICE Processing Center in Folkston, Georgia, to provide consular assistance.

US Government Defends the Raid and Reinforces Immigration Laws

US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stated the raid was necessary to protect American jobs. Officials said individuals on short-term or tourist visas are not allowed to work in the United States.

President Donald Trump called on foreign companies to respect immigration laws while allowing them to bring in skilled talent through legal channels. He emphasized the importance of hiring and training American workers.

Tom Homan, a senior border official, stated that more workplace enforcement operations are planned. He said companies that hire undocumented workers do so to cut costs and reduce competition from employers who follow the law.

Footage released by ICE showed detained workers in shackles, with some wearing safety vests labeled “Hyundai” and “LG CNS.”

South Korea Seeks Repatriation and Promises Policy Adjustments

South Korea’s government announced that it had reached an agreement with the US to release its detained nationals. A chartered plane will be sent once administrative procedures are completed.

Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik said the government is reviewing improvements to the visa process to avoid future incidents. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is scheduled to travel to the US.

Local media in Seoul described the raid as “shocking.” One newspaper reported that the event could discourage Korean businesses from operating in the US.

LG Energy Confirms Detentions and Suspends Business Travel

LG Energy Solution stated that 47 of its employees were among those arrested. The company said most of them were visiting on business visas or under a visa waiver program.

LG has now suspended most business trips to the US and asked its employees on assignment to return home or remain in place.

Hyundai clarified that none of its direct employees were detained. Officials from both Hyundai and LG said internal reviews are underway, including an examination of contractor practices.

Operation “Low Voltage” Becomes Largest Worksite Immigration Raid in US History

The enforcement action, named “Operation Low Voltage,” involved over 400 agents and followed several months of investigation.

Steven Schrank, the Homeland Security Investigations agent in charge, said the raid was not a general immigration sweep. He emphasized that the operation was focused and targeted.

Authorities stated that most of those arrested were not Hyundai or LG staff but worked for contracting companies supporting the construction site.

Source:

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj07jzgve45o

https://oto.detik.com/mobil/d-8100767/penggerebekan-pabrik-hyundai-di-as-ada-wni-ikut-diciduk

PHOTO: HYUNDAI

This article was created with AI assistance.