Return of South Korean Workers Post US Immigration Raid Raises Concerns

Tue Oct 21 2025 17:23:03 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

More than 300 South Korean nationals, detained during a U.S. immigration raid at a Hyundai plant, have returned home. This incident has sparked outrage and concerns regarding U.S.-South Korea relations and future investments.

Over 300 South Korean workers detained in an immigration raid at a Hyundai facility in Georgia have returned to South Korea. This incident, which involved the arrest of more than 300 Koreans, has raised significant concerns about diplomatic relations and future investments from South Korea in the U.S. amid a backdrop of discontent over U.S. immigration policies.

More than 300 South Koreans detained in a massive immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia have arrived back home. Their return comes amidst warnings from South Korean leaders regarding the impact of the raid on diplomatic and trade relations.

A chartered Korean Air jet carrying the workers, along with 14 other nationals also detained, departed Atlanta on Thursday afternoon. One South Korean individual opted to remain in the U.S. to pursue permanent residency.

The raid, which has sparked anger in South Korea, raises questions about U.S. immigration policies and their effect on foreign investments. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung remarked that the incident has shaken ties between the two nations, particularly as many South Korean companies are investing billions in the U.S.

The workers’ departure was delayed for over a day due to a request from the White House, to verify if they wanted to remain in the U.S. for work and training purposes. President Donald Trump’s administration has defended the operation, stressing the necessity of enforcing immigration laws.

Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport, the returning workers expressed relief, with one exclaiming, 'I'm back, I'm free,' while being guided to meet their families. However, tensions flared outside the terminal, as small protests took place, decrying the U.S. actions during the raid.

The impact of this incident on future U.S.-South Korea relations is concerning, with President Lee noting that future investments would be jeopardized if such actions persist. The South Korean foreign ministry is advocating for closer cooperation to mend cracks in the alliance.

Hyundai's chief executive has stated that the raid will delay the plant's opening by at least two months as the company seeks to replace the affected workers. Meanwhile, concerns continue to grow regarding the potential chilling effect this incident may have on future investments and collaborations between the two countries.