Will South Korea's FM Address the Detention of Koreans with Rubio?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal meeting, South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun will engage US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on resolving the detention of 300 South Koreans. This vital discussion comes after a significant immigration crackdown in Georgia, raising questions about the future of those affected.
Key Takeaways
- South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is set to meet with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
- Focus on approximately 300 South Koreans detained in Georgia.
- Discussions aim to ensure the safe return of detainees.
- Negotiations include potential changes to US visa policy.
- A chartered flight is being arranged for repatriation.
Seoul, Sep 9 (NationPress) South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is set to engage in discussions with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington, focusing on approximately 300 South Koreans detained in Georgia following a significant immigration operation led by US authorities, as disclosed by a Seoul official on Tuesday.
Cho will meet with his US counterpart on Tuesday (US time), while the South Korean nationals remain in a detention facility in Folkston after their arrest during a crackdown at a South Korean joint electric vehicle plant construction site in Bryan County, located near Savannah.
In an effort to resolve the situation, Cho arrived in Washington on Monday, as Seoul is arranging a chartered flight to repatriate the detained individuals this week.
"At this moment, we cannot specify the details of the minister's discussions with Secretary Rubio," a ministry official stated, according to Yonhap News Agency. "Our main priority is to resolve the issue concerning our nationals in custody and ensure their safe return home."
Negotiations are also ongoing with Washington to facilitate meetings between Cho and US officials from federal agencies responsible for immigration policy and enforcement, including the Department of Homeland Security, the official added.
During these discussions, Cho is anticipated to request cooperation to ensure that the detained South Koreans can depart the US voluntarily, avoiding deportation, and that they will not encounter disadvantages in future entries to the US.
Additionally, Cho is expected to address potential revisions to the US visa policy for South Korean workers, such as establishing a new work visa program or increasing visa quotas to facilitate smoother business operations for companies investing in the US.
According to industry sources, Korean Air has arranged for a Boeing 747-8i to depart for Atlanta as early as Wednesday (Seoul time) to bring the citizens back home.
Those among the detained individuals who hold foreign nationalities are also likely to board the same flight.
The government is currently "fine-tuning" the details for the expected departure time of the chartered flight, aiming for it to leave Atlanta on Thursday (local time), as indicated by the ministry official.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the delicate nature of international relations in this scenario. South Korea is rightly advocating for its citizens, and the dialogue with US officials is crucial for ensuring justice and fair treatment. The resolution of this situation is not only a matter of national pride but also pivotal for future diplomatic interactions.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the detained South Koreans?
Approximately 300 South Koreans are currently detained in Georgia following a significant immigration raid by US authorities.
What is Minister Cho Hyun's primary focus during the meeting?
Minister Cho aims to address the issue of the detained South Koreans and ensure their safe return to South Korea.
Is a chartered flight being arranged for the return of the detainees?
Yes, a chartered flight is being prepared to bring the detained citizens back to South Korea this week.
What discussions are expected regarding US visa policy?
Cho is expected to discuss potential revisions to US visa policy for South Korean workers, including a new work visa program.
When is the chartered flight expected to depart?
The government is working on details to allow the chartered flight to leave Atlanta on Thursday (local time).
