South Korea is preparing to repatriate approximately 300 citizens detained during a U.S. immigration enforcement operation at a Hyundai plant in Georgia last week. The South Korean presidential office confirmed on Sunday that negotiations for their release have concluded, with administrative processing underway to facilitate their return via a chartered flight.
The raid, part of the Trump administration's intensified immigration enforcement measures, has drawn attention to visa compliance challenges for foreign workers. South Korea's Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik announced plans to review visa systems to prevent future incidents, emphasizing the need for alignment with U.S. immigration laws.
While U.S. President Donald Trump reaffirmed commitment to strict immigration policies, he maintained that bilateral relations with Seoul remain strong. The development comes as both nations finalize details of a trade agreement announced in July, with potential implications for cross-border labor mobility.
LG Energy Solution has temporarily suspended non-essential staff travel to the U.S., recalling current employees amid the heightened scrutiny. Diplomatic observers note the timing coincides with potential U.S. participation in October's APEC Leaders' Meeting, where regional economic cooperation will be discussed.
