Should South Korea Reassess Its Response to the Detention of Nationals in the US?
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Synopsis
In light of the recent detention of South Korean workers in the US, President Lee Jae Myung has demanded a thorough review of the government's response. The incident has sparked significant public outcry, highlighting the delicate balance between international relations and domestic sentiments.
Key Takeaways
- President Lee Jae Myung is reviewing the government's response to the detention of South Koreans.
- Over 300 South Koreans were detained during a US immigration raid.
- Public outrage is significant due to the treatment of detainees.
- The incident poses challenges to the South Korea-US alliance.
- Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is coordinating efforts for repatriation.
Seoul, Sep 8 (NationPress) President Lee Jae Myung of South Korea has instructed his team to assess if there were any deficiencies in the response regarding the detention of South Korean laborers at a US battery plant construction site, as stated by the Presidential Office on Monday.
Lee's directive followed a briefing on an incident where over 300 South Koreans were detained at a facility in Georgia after a raid conducted by US immigration officials on the construction site managed by Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution, according to Kang Yu-jung, the Presidential Spokesperson, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
He specifically directed officials to investigate if there were any shortcomings in the government's approach to this unprecedented mass operation at a single location.
When questioned about the Presidential Office's position on the matter, Kang remarked, "We understand the discomfort, anxiety, and dissatisfaction that may be felt by the public."
She reaffirmed that the government will steadfastly uphold the South Korea-US alliance while taking public concerns into consideration.
The arrests have ignited public outrage in Seoul, as footage released by immigration authorities depicted the Koreans being restrained with handcuffs and metal chains while being transported like inmates.
This operation occurred during a period when South Korean firms have been significantly increasing investments in the US, especially as the Trump administration aims to rejuvenate American manufacturing, shipbuilding, and other sectors.
On Monday, Foreign Minister Cho Hyun left for Washington to finalize plans for repatriating the detained South Koreans on a charter flight.
On September 4, out of 457 individuals, more than 300 South Koreans were taken into custody during a US immigration raid at the facility managed by the South Korean corporations, Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution, in Georgia.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported that those arrested were found working illegally in the US, including individuals on short-term or recreational visas that prohibit employment.
US officials characterized Thursday's raid as "the largest single-site enforcement operation in the history of Homeland Security Investigations."
US President Donald Trump expressed his backing for the ICE action on Friday, labeling the detained individuals as "illegal aliens."
Point of View
It's crucial to emphasize that the South Korean government must navigate this sensitive situation with care. The public's concerns about the well-being of its citizens detained abroad must be addressed while also maintaining a strong alliance with the United States. It’s a challenging balance that requires both compassion and pragmatism.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were South Korean workers detained in the US?
The workers were detained during an immigration raid on a battery plant construction site operated by South Korean companies, with claims that many were working illegally.
What actions is the South Korean government taking?
President Lee Jae Myung has ordered a review of the government’s response and Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is working on arrangements to repatriate the detained individuals.
What sparked public outrage in South Korea?
The public was outraged by the treatment of workers during their detention, as footage showed them being handcuffed and restrained, which raised concerns about human rights.
