🚨 It started like a real-life K-drama: US federal agents swooped in on a Hyundai-LG joint plant near Savannah, Georgia, this week. The outcome? About 475 workers cuffed, including over 300 South Koreans, in the biggest single-site enforcement operation ever by the Department of Homeland Security. Helicopters, armored vehicles, the full action-movie package. 🎬
What went down?
According to US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), this wasnt a typical work visa check. Agents say its a months-long criminal probe into unlawful employment practices and serious federal crimes. Some workers were reportedly here on the wrong visa or overstayed. Once detained, they were shackled at wrists, waist, and ankles, then loaded onto buses.
Seoul steps in 🤝
South Korea's Pres. Chief of Staff Kang Hun-sik confirmed US-South Korea talks have wrapped up, paving the way for a special flight to bring detained Korean nationals home once paperwork is done. Foreign Minister Cho Hyun called the raid deeply concerning, and First Vice FM Park Yoon-joo urged the US to protect the rights of Korean citizens and companies in the States.
How companies are reacting
LG Energy Solution says 47 of its own staff (mostly Koreans) were caught up in the raid, while Hyundai clarifies none were directly employed by them. LG has hit pause on non-urgent US trips for now, and those on assignment are either heading home or on standby.
What's next? 🌐
This raid comes as Seoul and Washington push to seal a new $350 billion trade fund deal, and with APEC in October on the horizon. Could this bust disrupt ties right when momentum's high? Keep an eye on developments—tech-savvy global citizens like you will want to know how this affects big-brand investments, job security, and visa rules for the next wave of overseas gigs.
Stay tuned for updates—and let's hope for a smooth return for those workers soon! 🙏
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
