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In what has been described as the largest single-site immigration enforcement operation ever conducted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), federal agents raided the construction site of the Hyundai-LG electric vehicle battery plant in Georgia, detaining approximately 475 workers, more than 300 of whom were South Korean nationals.
The operation was carried out by multiple agencies, including ICE, the FBI, the DEA, the ATF, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Georgia State Patrol, and was based on a court order that initially targeted only four individuals. Possible labor exploitation and visa violations are being investigated.
Diplomatic response and repatriation
The South Korean government acted immediately. Foreign Minister Cho Hyun traveled to Washington to negotiate the release of the detainees. It was confirmed that Seoul is coordinating a chartered flight to voluntarily repatriate the South Korean nationals, an unusual measure in this type of case.
A senior South Korean presidential official announced that negotiations have concluded and that the repatriation will take place as soon as the administrative procedures are completed. The workers are expected to be able to return on the Wednesday following the raid.
Implications for investments and migration policy
The operation caused alarm in South Korea and diplomatic tensions, as it occurred after a recent summit where ambitious investment agreements were sealed between the two countries.
U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the raid will not affect foreign investment and that these actions reinforce clarity in current immigration policies.
For his part, President Trump defended the operation, encouraging foreign companies to respect immigration laws: "If you bring in foreign talent, do so legally and train American workers," he wrote on his social media platform.
Impact on the project and context
The raid temporarily halted construction at the Hyundai-LG plant, a key investment estimated at $4.3 billion designed to supply thousands of electric vehicles.
LG Energy Solution has suspended business travel to the U.S. and asked employees to remain in their accommodations or return home, stating that it is cooperating to ensure the safe departure of its workers.
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