How is South Korea’s FM Cho Planning to 'Rescue' Korean Detainees?
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Synopsis
South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is taking decisive steps to ensure the swift return of Korean detainees held due to a U.S. immigration crackdown. With over 300 detainees impacted, Cho aims for their release amidst unspecified U.S. circumstances. This situation has garnered significant attention and concern, reflecting the ongoing complexities of international labor relations.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea's FM Cho Hyun is determined to secure the release of detained citizens.
- Over 300 South Koreans were detained in a recent U.S. immigration operation.
- President Lee Jae Myung expressed responsibility and sympathy regarding the situation.
- Discussions between South Korean and U.S. officials are ongoing.
- Visa policy reforms are being considered to prevent future issues.
Washington, Sep 10 (NationPress) South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun asserted on Wednesday the commitment to "rescue" South Koreans currently held due to a recent crackdown by U.S. immigration authorities, aiming for their release "within the shortest time". His ministry pointed to "unspecified U.S. circumstances" as the cause for delays in the release of those detained in a Georgia facility.
Cho's comments were made ahead of a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the White House, where they will address various concerns regarding the detainees, as reported by Yonhap News Agency. Originally slated for Tuesday, their discussions were postponed to Wednesday.
"(We) will ensure whatever it takes ... in the best way that our citizens will be rescued and be able to board a (chartered) plane within the shortest time," Cho informed journalists.
When questioned about the U.S. circumstances causing the delay in the Koreans' release, Cho remarked, "We are not at a stage to tell you about that."
More than 300 South Korean employees were initially scheduled to depart on a chartered flight from an Atlanta airport on Wednesday, six days after their apprehension during an immigration raid at a construction site for an electric vehicle battery plant linked to a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution in Bryan County, close to Savannah.
A total of 475 individuals, including around 300 South Koreans, were detained in what U.S. authorities described as the "largest single site enforcement operation" in the history of Homeland Security Investigations.
U.S. officials indicated that those arrested were found to be working illegally, including individuals on short-term or recreational visas that prohibit employment.
On Tuesday, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung expressed a profound sense of responsibility regarding the detention of South Korean workers at the battery plant construction site in Georgia, conveying his deep sympathy.
Lee made these comments during a Cabinet meeting as over 300 South Koreans remained in custody at a Georgia detention center following the immigration raid. He stated, "Our citizens who were detained by U.S. immigration authorities are expected to return home soon," and offered his deepest condolences for the shock and distress they must have experienced from this abrupt incident.
He added, "I hope that no unfair infringements on the activities of our people and businesses -- which contribute to the shared development of both Korea and the United States -- will ever happen again."
Kim Yong-beom, the presidential chief of staff for policy, expressed that the government has conveyed strong regret to the U.S. regarding the detention of South Korean workers.
During a debate session with journalists, Kim stated that Seoul officials are finalizing administrative procedures to facilitate the return of the detained Koreans under "voluntary departure" rather than "deportation."
He noted that efforts made over the past decade to ease visa restrictions for Korean workers have met with limited success due to rising anti-immigration sentiments in the U.S., emphasizing the need for a revision of visa rules in consultation with Washington to support Korean investments in the U.S.
Kim mentioned, "If necessary, the presidential office and the White House should establish a working group to find a short-term solution and push for legislative changes in the longer term."
Point of View
We recognize the complexity of this situation involving South Korean workers detained in the U.S. Our commitment remains to report on the facts while considering the broader implications for international relations and labor rights. It is essential to approach this matter with an understanding of the experiences of those affected and the diplomatic efforts necessary for resolution.
NationPress
01/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the detention of South Koreans in the U.S.?
The detention was part of a U.S. immigration crackdown where over 475 individuals were arrested for working illegally, including many on visas that do not permit employment.
How many South Koreans are currently detained?
Over 300 South Korean workers are currently detained in a facility in Georgia.
What actions is South Korea taking regarding the detainees?
South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun has pledged to rescue the detainees as quickly as possible and is engaging in discussions with U.S. officials to facilitate their return.
What did President Lee Jae Myung say about the situation?
President Lee expressed a heavy sense of responsibility for the detainees and offered deep sympathy for their experiences.
What are the broader implications of this incident?
This incident raises concerns about labor rights, immigration policies, and the dynamics of U.S.-Korean relations amidst rising anti-immigration sentiment.
