South Korea's Foreign Minister Heads to US Over Detained Workers at Hyundai Plant

Wed Jan 14 2026 02:16:16 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The South Korean foreign minister embarks on a mission to negotiate the release of hundreds of workers detained in a massive immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia, heightening tensions between allies over labor policies.

South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is traveling to the U.S. to finalize steps for the repatriation of approximately 475 workers, including over 300 South Koreans, who were detained in a recent immigration raid at a Hyundai automotive plant in Georgia. The raid, which has shocked the South Korean public and raised concerns about bilateral trade relations, corresponds with heightened scrutiny over U.S. immigration enforcement. Amid calls for retaliation and discussions on visa expansions for skilled workers, Cho stressed the need for dialogue to ensure operational continuity for South Korean businesses in America.

SEOUL, South Korea — South Korea’s Foreign Minister departed for the United States on Monday to negotiate the return of several hundred workers detained during a massive immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia. This incident caused widespread confusion and shock in South Korea, rekindling feelings of betrayal among citizens and leaders of the U.S.-allied nation.

The raid, which occurred on September 4, led to the detention of 475 workers at a battery facility under construction related to Hyundai, with over 300 of those detained being South Korean nationals. Video footage released by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) showed some workers being shackled during the operation.

South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun labeled the matter a very serious issue during a legislative hearing before his departure, expressing that it was completely unexpected. Lawmakers from various political parties have voiced concerns, questioning how South Korean firms can maintain investments in America if such actions unfold.

Despite expressing regret over the operation, South Korean officials have indicated they will likely refrain from significant retaliatory measures due to their security reliance on the U.S. amidst ongoing tensions with North Korea.

The raid occurs at a time when South Korea had pledged substantial investments to the U.S. as part of ongoing trade agreements, raising questions about the future of bilateral cooperation. Many in South Korea are now calling for a reevaluation of labor and immigration policies, asserting that existing U.S. visa restrictions for skilled workers hinder operational efficiency and economic growth.

Cho reiterated that he would be negotiating not only for the release of the detained workers but also advocating for the expansion of U.S. work visas to benefit South Korean companies investing and employing in the U.S.

Ultimately, the incident highlights the complexities of international labor practices and immigration policies, emphasizing how local enforcement can impact global business relations.