South Korea has urgently requested U.S. congressional support for a specialized business visa program following the controversial detention of hundreds of Korean workers in Georgia, marking a critical moment in bilateral relations. The appeal comes as 300 South Korean professionals arrested during an immigration enforcement operation at Hyundai's electric vehicle battery plant prepare to return home.
Foreign Minister Cho Hyun raised concerns about the treatment of investors and specialists during high-level meetings with U.S. senators this week. The workers, detained during a raid involving armored vehicles at the $5.5 billion Hyundai facility, were released after South Korean diplomats negotiated their unchained repatriation – a key demand from Seoul.
The incident has cast uncertainty over ongoing trade negotiations and South Korea's $100 billion in planned U.S. investments. Hyundai CEO Jose Munoz confirmed the Georgia plant now faces at least a three-month operational delay, while business leaders warn the enforcement action could deter future high-tech collaborations.
U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick acknowledged visa documentation issues, stating: "Get the right visa and if you're having problems… call me." The statement follows years of South Korean complaints about restrictive short-term work permits for technical specialists under current immigration policies.
As a chartered flight carried the last workers from Atlanta to Seoul on Friday, both nations agreed to establish a new visa framework. The resolution attempts to balance U.S. workforce development goals with South Korea's need for specialized talent exchange – a delicate compromise that could shape future cross-Pacific economic partnerships.
