South Korea"s President has successfully facilitated the release of approximately 300 South Korean citizens arrested during an ICE raid at a Hyundai Motor battery manufacturing plant in Georgia. The raid, which took place on September 6, 2025, targeted illegal migrants working at the facility.
In response to the arrests, President Yoon Suk-yeol ordered a swift resolution, prompting Foreign Minister Cho Hyun to establish a special commission to manage the situation. Cho indicated his readiness to travel to Washington if necessary to negotiate the release of the detained individuals.
Following discussions between U.S. and South Korean officials, an agreement was reached, allowing for the return of the arrested citizens. The South Korean government announced plans to send a charter flight to bring them home.
This incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policies in the U.S. and their impact on foreign workers. As previously reported, similar situations have arisen recently, including challenges faced by Korean firms amid U.S. visa restrictions that hamper job creation despite significant investment pledges. The government"s proactive approach in this case may set a precedent for future diplomatic negotiations regarding the treatment of foreign workers in the United States.
