Why Did US Deputy State Secretary Landau Regret the Detention of S. Koreans?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
A senior US State Department official expresses deep regret over the mass detention of South Korean workers in the US, promising to prevent future incidents. This situation poses significant implications for South Korean investments in America, prompting discussions on visa reforms and bilateral ties.
Key Takeaways
- US Deputy Secretary of State expresses regret over mass detention.
- 316 South Korean workers were held during an immigration crackdown.
- Discussion on visas for South Korean workers proposed.
- South Korean investments in the US are significant, totaling $21.5 billion.
- Need for systematic improvements in immigration policies emphasized.
Seoul, September 14 (NationPress) A prominent official from the US State Department conveyed his regret on Sunday regarding the recent widespread detention of South Korean workers in the United States, promising to take measures to avert future incidents.
Christopher Landau, the Deputy Secretary of State, was in Seoul for discussions with Park Yoon-joo, the First Vice Foreign Minister of South Korea, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
The South Korean Foreign Ministry indicated that Landau expressed profound remorse concerning the detainment of numerous South Korean workers during an immigration enforcement operation earlier this month at a construction site for an electric vehicle battery plant, a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution located in Bryan County, Georgia.
A total of 316 South Korean workers returned to their homeland on Friday after spending a week in a detention facility.
During his meeting, Landau mentioned to Park that both allies should view this incident as a chance to enhance their bilateral relationship and make necessary improvements to relevant systems, as per the Ministry's statement.
He also noted that US President Donald Trump is closely monitoring the situation, assuring that those who returned will not face disadvantages when attempting to re-enter the US.
The State Department representative stated that Washington aims to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Landau suggested initiating discussions focused on the issuance of appropriate visas for South Korean workers in the US, emphasizing the need for institutional support for South Korean companies that are investing in the American economy and manufacturing sector.
In response, Park highlighted the difficulties faced by South Korean workers during their detention, noting that both the workers and the general public in South Korea were significantly alarmed by the crackdown.
Furthermore, Park strongly urged the US to implement practical measures and systematic changes to alleviate the concerns of South Koreans.
The majority of the detained workers had entered the US on non-immigrant business visas (B-1 visas or ESTA permits), which are designed for short-term business visits rather than employment.
South Korean businesses perceive these visa challenges as a significant barrier to their investments in the US, a concern that stands in stark contrast to South Korea's position as the largest foreign investor in the US in 2023, with investments totaling $21.5 billion.
Seoul has also committed to an additional $350 billion in investments under a new trade framework. However, only about 2,000 South Koreans with specialty occupations receive H-1B visas each year, out of nearly 85,000 available.
Point of View
It is crucial to present an unbiased perspective on this sensitive issue. The mass detention of South Korean workers in the US has sparked considerable concern and calls for reform in immigration policies. It is essential to highlight both the US government's commitment to address the incident and the valid concerns raised by South Korean officials regarding their citizens' treatment in America.
NationPress
14/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the detention of South Korean workers?
The detention was part of an immigration crackdown at a construction site for an electric vehicle battery plant in Georgia.
How many South Korean workers were detained?
A total of 316 South Korean workers were detained during the immigration enforcement operation.
What assurances did Landau provide regarding future incidents?
Landau assured that Washington would take steps to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
What are the concerns regarding US visas for South Korean workers?
South Korean companies face challenges due to visa restrictions, which they view as significant barriers to their investments in the US.
What is the significance of South Korea's investments in the US?
South Korea is the largest foreign investor in the US for 2023, with investments totaling $21.5 billion, highlighting the importance of favorable immigration policies.
