Korean Workers Celebrate Their Return Home After US Immigration Detention?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
After enduring days of detention in the US, Korean workers finally return home, leading to emotional reunions with their families. As they arrive at Incheon International Airport, their joy and relief are palpable, highlighting the human side of immigration enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- 316 South Korean workers returned home after detention.
- Emotional reunions were witnessed at Incheon International Airport.
- The workers were detained during a raid at a Hyundai-LG construction site.
- Concerns over immigration policies were raised during the event.
- Family members expressed immense relief upon the workers' return.
Seoul, Sep 12 (NationPress) On Friday, a majority of Korean workers celebrated their return home after enduring several days of detention due to last week's US immigration raid, with some overwhelmed by emotion during their long-awaited family reunions.
"I’m back! Freedom!" one worker exclaimed upon arriving at Incheon International Airport.
This individual was among 316 South Koreans and 14 other foreign nationals who disembarked from a chartered flight arriving from Georgia after being released from their detention the prior day.
Their return concluded a week-long effort to repatriate the workers following their detention during a raid at an electric car battery factory construction site co-managed by Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution in Bryan County.
As they entered the arrival hall, the atmosphere was electric with applause and cheers. A woman waiting in the area cried out, "honey!" before embracing her husband.
One worker shared with reporters how wonderful it felt to be home, while acknowledging concerns regarding their health.
Family members had been anxiously awaiting their loved ones at the airport.
"It felt like my world was collapsing," recounted the wife of an LG Energy Solution worker. "We worried endlessly over the past week, and I am so relieved he is back home safely."
Lee mentioned her husband traveled to the United States for work on a B-1 visa in July and was initially set to return home on Thursday.
"When I first learned of the situation, my heart sank," she said. "He faced numerous hardships just before his return home."
Seventy-four-year-old Lee Sang-hee was among those awaiting her 44-year-old son, who is employed at a subcontractor.
"I thought he would only face simple questioning, but when I saw on TV that they were taken to a detention center and shackled, I was shocked," she expressed. "I am grateful my son has returned home healthy."
In one corner of the arrival hall, a civic group was demanding an apology from the US, shouting slogans and holding a satirical banner depicting US President Donald Trump as an armed US Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Approximately 100 police officers were stationed at the airport to ensure order, with additional personnel deployed along the routes from the terminal to the parking lot to assist the returning workers.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this story with an understanding of the complexities surrounding immigration. The experiences of these workers shed light on the challenges they face, and the emotional impact of their detention. This situation underscores the need for a balanced discussion on immigration policies and their effects on real lives.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the detention of Korean workers in the US?
The workers were detained during a US immigration raid at a construction site for an electric car battery factory.
How many workers were detained?
A total of 316 South Koreans and 14 foreign nationals were detained.
When did the Korean workers return home?
The workers returned on September 12, shortly after their release from detention.
What were the workers' reactions upon returning home?
Many workers expressed joy and relief, with emotional reunions occurring at the airport.
What measures were taken for the workers' arrival at the airport?
Approximately 100 police officers were deployed to maintain order and assist the returning workers.
