Did Seoul Confirm Over 300 South Koreans Detained in US Immigration Crackdown?
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Synopsis
In a shocking revelation, South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun has confirmed that over 300 South Koreans are among the individuals detained during a US immigration operation at a battery plant in Georgia. The government is taking swift actions to resolve the situation and protect the rights of its nationals.
Key Takeaways
- Over 300 South Koreans detained in a US immigration crackdown.
- South Korea is seeking to protect the rights of its nationals.
- US authorities conducted a raid at a battery plant for alleged illegal employment practices.
- LG Energy Solution has suspended business trips to the US.
- The situation raises questions about international relations and immigration enforcement.
Seoul, Sep 6 (NationPress) South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun confirmed on Saturday that over 300 out of 457 individuals detained are nationals of South Korea. Cho mentioned that he might travel to the United States to engage in discussions regarding the apprehension of hundreds of Koreans by US immigration authorities at a South Korean battery plant site located in Georgia.
"We are profoundly concerned and bear a significant sense of responsibility regarding the detention of our nationals," Cho stated at the commencement of the meeting, which included two vice ministers, ministry officials, and representatives from overseas missions.
"We will deliberate on sending a senior official from the foreign ministry to the site promptly, and if required, I will personally make a trip to Washington to consult with the US administration," he added.
Cho relayed that President Lee Jae Myung has directed officials to exert maximum effort to resolve the situation swiftly, emphasizing that the rights and interests of South Korean nationals and businesses investing in the US must not be compromised, according to the Yonhap news agency.
During a meeting with acting US Ambassador to Seoul Joseph Yun on Thursday, Second Vice Foreign Minister Kim Ji-na expressed regret and concern regarding the crackdown, as mentioned by Cho.
US authorities executed a search warrant at an electric vehicle battery plant construction site run by HL-GA Battery Co., a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Co. and LG Energy Solution Ltd., in Bryan County near Savannah on Thursday.
The authorities characterized the raid as a criminal investigation into alleged unlawful employment practices.
US President Donald Trump stated on Friday that the detained individuals are "illegal aliens" and that immigration officials were "simply executing their duties."
Steven Schrank, a special agent with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for Georgia, explained that the people in custody include those who entered through a visa waiver program that prohibits them from working or those who have overstayed their visas.
The majority are currently being held at a detention center in Folkston, Georgia.
HL-GA Battery Co. announced its full cooperation with the authorities and has halted construction to facilitate their ongoing investigation.
US authorities labeled the raid as "the largest single-site enforcement operation in the history" of HSI.
In a statement released on Saturday, LG Energy Solution declared it has suspended all business trips to the US and has instructed employees currently in the US to remain in their accommodations or return home immediately.
The company's chief human resources officer is scheduled to depart for the US the following day to address the situation on-site, according to the firm.
"We will strive to resolve the matter promptly, ensuring the quick and safe return of all employees," the company emphasized.
Among those detained, 47 have been confirmed as employees of LG Energy Solution, while the remainder are associated with HL-GA Battery.
Most were reportedly sent to conduct final construction tasks, such as electrical installations, ahead of the plant's anticipated completion next year.
Point of View
It's crucial to note that South Korea's government is taking a proactive stance in addressing the immigration crackdown on its nationals in the US. The focus remains on ensuring the rights and welfare of its citizens while navigating diplomatic relations with the US. This incident highlights the complexities of immigration enforcement and its impact on international business.
NationPress
06/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many South Koreans were detained?
More than 300 South Koreans were confirmed detained out of a total of 457 individuals taken into custody.
What actions is South Korea taking?
South Korea's Foreign Minister has indicated a potential visit to the US to discuss the situation and ensure the rights of its nationals are protected.
What was the reason for the detentions?
The detentions occurred during a US immigration enforcement operation at a battery plant, characterized as a criminal investigation into alleged unlawful employment practices.
Who is affected by the detentions?
The detained individuals include employees of LG Energy Solution and HL-GA Battery, primarily involved in construction work at the plant.
What is the current status of the detained individuals?
Most of the detained individuals are being held at a detention center in Folkston, Georgia.
