Massive ICE Raid at South Korean-Owned EV Battery Plant in Georgia: Hundreds of Workers Detained Amidst Allegations of Illegal Employment

South Korea’s Foreign Minister is considering a visit to the United States for discussions with the Trump administration, following the arrest of hundreds of South Korean nationals at an electric vehicle battery plant in Georgia.

In response to the arrests, Foreign Minister Cho Hyun expressed deep concern and a sense of responsibility during an emergency meeting in Seoul. He reportedly stated that President Lee Jae Myung has urged immediate action to resolve the matter, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the rights and business interests of South Korean nationals and companies operating in the U.S.

On Thursday, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a raid at an electric vehicle battery plant under construction in Ellabell, Georgia, near Savannah. The joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution was the target of the operation.

As reported by various media outlets, ICE arrested 475 individuals, most of whom were South Korean nationals. According to ICE officials, a charter plane is being prepared by South Korea to bring over 300 workers back home once administrative procedures are finalized.

The operation was highlighted as the largest single-site enforcement action in the history of Homeland Security Investigations. ICE released footage showing officers handcuffing workers and loading them onto Georgia prison buses.

Steven Schrank, special agent in charge of homeland security investigations for Georgia and Alabama, stated during a press conference that the operation underscored the commitment to safeguarding jobs for Americans. He explained that the workers were either in the U.S. illegally or working without proper documentation.

The arrests come at a time when tensions between the two nations may be heightened due to President Trump’s efforts to secure trade deals and increase South Korean investment in the U.S. Hyundai also operates an auto plant in Montgomery, Alabama, and has plans to invest over $5 billion in a steel plant in Louisiana.

When asked about the raid at the White House, President Trump expressed that those arrested were likely “illegal aliens,” and ICE was simply carrying out its duties.

U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock of Georgia has questioned the president’s immigration strategy and the manner in which firms are able to allegedly employ workers without proper documentation. In a statement, he expressed concern over the potential exploitation of immigrant workers and the impact on Georgia’s economy and its residents.

Both Hyundai Motor Co. and LG Energy Solution have released statements addressing the situation. Hyundai has pledged an internal investigation into employment compliance, while LG Energy Solution has temporarily halted all business trips to the U.S. and is sending their chief human resources officer to address the issues on-site. The companies have expressed a commitment to promptly resolving the situation and ensuring the safe return of all employees.

Georgia officials have supported the operation, with Governor Brian Kemp’s office stating that they will always enforce state and federal immigration laws. The Georgia National Guard is also providing administrative support to ICE during the investigation.

Republican U.S. Senate candidate Buddy Carter has expressed his approval of the Trump Administration’s actions, stating in a social media post that American workers are being prioritized and illegal immigration is being addressed under President Trump’s watch.