South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has raised concerns about a recent U.S. immigration enforcement operation at a Hyundai-LG battery plant in Georgia, calling it "bewildering" and warning it could impact future investment decisions. The remarks follow the detention of hundreds of South Korean workers during a raid described as the largest single-site operation since former U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration crackdowns.
Authorities expect most detained workers – many accused of minor visa violations – to be released and repatriated to South Korea this week. Lee attributed the incident to "cultural differences," noting that similar infractions by U.S. nationals in South Korea are typically handled through administrative processes rather than large-scale enforcement actions.
"This situation forces South Korean companies to reconsider whether establishing U.S. operations justifies such risks," Lee stated, emphasizing potential repercussions for bilateral economic cooperation. South Korea remains one of America's largest foreign investors, with its corporations channeling billions into U.S. manufacturing projects annually.
The raid occurred less than a month after high-profile diplomatic talks between U.S. and South Korean leaders, adding geopolitical complexity to the dispute. Analysts suggest the incident may prompt multinational firms to reassess operational strategies amid tightening global immigration policies.
