US Hyundai-LG Raid Detains 475 Workers, Risks South Korean Investment

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung condemned a large-scale U.S. immigration raid at a Hyundai-LG battery plant in Georgia, describing the operation as "bewildering" and expressing concern that it could significantly hinder future South Korean investments in the United States. The raid, which detained nearly 475 workers including over 300 South Korean nationals, involved the use of shackles and handcuffs, sparking shock and a sense of betrayal in South Korea. President Lee attributed the incident partly to cultural differences, noting that minor visa infractions by Americans in South Korea are not treated as severely. He emphasized that the raid could cause South Korean businesses to hesitate in investing or establishing operations in the U.S., especially since skilled Korean technicians are essential for setting up and training local workers. South Korea is working diplomatically to secure the release and return of the detained workers, with Foreign Minister Cho Hyun engaging U.S. officials to improve visa processes and address concerns about the treatment of Korean workers. The incident has strained U.S.-South Korea business cooperation and raised questions about the viability of direct operations by Korean companies in the U.S. under current immigration enforcement policies.