South Korea will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the detention of 317 Korean workers by American immigration officials. The Foreign Ministry announced plans to examine the legality of arrests and human rights conditions during the Georgia facility raids. Testimonies describe abusive treatment and racist comments from Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers at detention centers. Workers returned home Friday after diplomatic negotiations between Seoul and Washington resolved the unprecedented mass detention. One worker remains in custody to pursue green card proceedings.
The September 4 raid targeted an electric vehicle battery plant construction site operated by HL-GA Battery Company. Most detained Koreans held valid B-1 business visas or travel authorization permits for legitimate work activities. Seoul demands explanations for why legally employed visa holders faced arrest and imprisonment. Foreign Ministry officials emphasize that companies should conduct their own internal investigations before seeking government intervention. Both nations acknowledge the structural problems that contributed to this crisis and plan bilateral consultations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The September 4 raid targeted an electric vehicle battery plant construction site operated by HL-GA Battery Company. Most detained Koreans held valid B-1 business visas or travel authorization permits for legitimate work activities. Seoul demands explanations for why legally employed visa holders faced arrest and imprisonment. Foreign Ministry officials emphasize that companies should conduct their own internal investigations before seeking government intervention. Both nations acknowledge the structural problems that contributed to this crisis and plan bilateral consultations to prevent similar incidents in the future.
