ICE raid on Hyundai plant in Georgia swept up workers on visitor visas
Original story by
BBC News•Sep 6•US Immigration, South Korea Relations, Manufacturing

📰 Article Summary
A large immigration raid by ICE at a Hyundai battery plant in Georgia led to the arrest of 475 individuals, primarily South Korean, found to be illegally working with visitor visas. The operation raises tensions between the US and South Korea amidst President Trump's focus on both increasing domestic manufacturing and enforcing strict immigration laws. Critics argue that some individuals were wrongfully detained, while local authorities stress the importance of legal immigration processes. This incident highlights the complexities surrounding foreign investments and the treatment of immigrant workers in America.
📌 Key Facts
- Details of the Raid: Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a significant raid at a Hyundai battery plant in Georgia on Thursday, resulting in the arrest of 475 workers, mostly South Koreans. They were found to be working without proper authorization under their visitor visas.
- Response from South Korea: In reaction to the raid, the South Korean government emphasized the importance of protecting the rights of its citizens working in the US. They have sent diplomats to Georgia to address the matter, highlighting the potential strain on US-South Korea relations.
- Trump Administration's Stance: President Trump defended the enforcement action, labeling the arrestees as 'illegal aliens' and emphasizing the need for legal compliance in employment practices. He stressed his administration’s commitment to both economic development and strict immigration controls.
- Legal Concerns: Some individuals affected by the raid claimed that they were in the US under proper visa waivers for business purposes, raising questions about the accuracy of ICE's enforcement. Immigration attorneys believe that mistakes may have been made in detaining lawfully present individuals.
- Broader Implications: The raid underscores the conflict between promoting foreign investment and enforcing immigration laws. It suggests a tension within the Trump administration’s policies aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing while simultaneously cracking down on illegal immigration.
📂 Article Classification
Topic Tags: US Immigration Raid at Hyundai Plant
📍 Location
Folkston, Georgia United States
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