Incident Overview
On Thursday, September 4, 2025, U.S. immigration agents conducted a raid at a Hyundai-LG battery plant under construction in Ellabell, Georgia, detaining nearly 500 workers. The detained individuals include at least 300 South Korean nationals and 23 Mexican nationals.
Details of the Raid
The raid was carried out by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Footage of the raid showed detained workers in handcuffs and with chains around their ankles. The sudden detention of workers appeared to strain the longstanding diplomatic and economic relationship between the United States and South Korea.
Background on the Hyundai-LG Plant
The Hyundai-LG battery plant is one of the Korean automaker's major investments in the United States. The plant is part of Hyundai's efforts to expand its electric vehicle production in the country.
Response from South Korea
The South Korean government announced on Sunday, September 7, 2025, that it would help its citizens return voluntarily after the raid. The government also stated that it was working to secure the release of the detained workers. On Monday, September 8, 2025, South Korea's presidential office confirmed that negotiations to release the detained South Koreans had concluded, and processing for their release from custody was ongoing.
Statement from U.S. Authorities
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem stated that the detained South Koreans would be 'deported'. The U.S. government has been escalating a crackdown on immigrants, disrupting businesses around the country.
Expert Insights
Implications and Developments
The incident has raised questions about the treatment of foreign workers in the United States and the impact of immigration policies on businesses. The U.S. government has promised more raids on employers, which could lead to further detentions and deportations.
Conclusion
The detention of hundreds of workers at the Hyundai-LG battery plant in Georgia has sparked a diplomatic and economic controversy between the United States and South Korea. The incident highlights the need for clearer guidelines and regulations on immigration policies and their impact on foreign workers.
Additional Context
The Hyundai-LG battery plant is located in Ellabell, Georgia, and is expected to create hundreds of jobs once completed. The plant is part of Hyundai's efforts to expand its electric vehicle production in the United States.
Related Information
The U.S. government has been increasing its efforts to enforce immigration laws, leading to a rise in detentions and deportations of undocumented workers. The incident at the Hyundai-LG battery plant is the latest in a series of raids and detentions of foreign workers in the United States.
Final Update
As of September 8, 2025, the detained South Korean workers are expected to be released and flown back to South Korea. The incident has strained relations between the two countries, and further developments are expected in the coming days.