South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has raised alarms over a recent U.S. immigration enforcement action that detained hundreds of South Korean workers at a Hyundai Motor project in Georgia, warning it could deter future Korean investment in the United States. The incident has triggered diplomatic tensions and sparked debates about cross-border business collaboration.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Lee described the raid as a "confounding event" that left businesses "hesitant" about U.S. ventures. Over 300 South Korean workers were detained last week at the construction site, part of Hyundai's $5.5 billion electric vehicle plant. The workers, held at a detention center, are scheduled to return to South Korea on a chartered flight Thursday afternoon local time.
"Our businesses investing in the U.S. are in serious confusion," Lee stated, emphasizing the need for improved visa processes for skilled workers. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun traveled to Washington this week to address the fallout, meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss visa restrictions and diplomatic solutions.
The raid has drawn sharp criticism from Korean firms, who argue that strict U.S. visa policies hinder technology transfers and staff training—key components of Hyundai's partnership with American manufacturers. While both nations are negotiating procedural improvements, Lee cautioned that the incident may have lasting repercussions on investor confidence.
Hyundai's Georgia plant, a cornerstone of U.S.-South Korea economic cooperation, represents one of the largest foreign investments in recent American manufacturing history. Analysts suggest the dispute could influence upcoming decisions by Asian companies eyeing U.S. expansion amid shifting global supply chains.
