Seoul: South Korean workers detained in the United States during an immigration raid are expected to return home voluntarily, as the South Korean government prepares to send a chartered flight following discussions with Washington.
According to Yonhap News Agency, over 300 South Korean nationals are currently held at a detention facility in Folkston, Georgia. This follows a raid last Thursday at an electric vehicle battery plant construction site near Savannah, operated by a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution. In response, South Korea's presidential office announced plans to dispatch a chartered plane to the U.S. to facilitate their return after completing necessary consultations with American authorities.
Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is scheduled to travel to Washington via Salt Lake City to meet with officials to "finalize the fundamental issues and ensure that no unexpected issues arise in the process of securing the release of our citizens," a ministry official stated. The goal is to expedite the process to ensure the safe and swift return of the detained individuals. The chartered plane could depart for the U.S. as early as Wednesday, according to South Korean time.
Negotiations between Seoul and Washington have focused on arranging a voluntary departure for the detained South Koreans, as deportation could lead to stricter visa screenings or even a travel ban for future U.S. visits. Consular officials have met with about 250 detainees to assess their health and overall conditions at the Folkston center, with reports indicating no unfair treatment or human rights violations.
U.S. immigration authorities have reportedly given the detainees a choice between accepting deportation with a five-year reentry ban or remaining in custody to stand trial. The potential for entry restrictions on future visits to the U.S. remains a concern, depending on each individual's visa status.
While in Washington, Minister Cho is expected to advocate for revising visa quotas and policies related to South Korea to prevent similar incidents. Despite Seoul's calls for expanded visa quotas, progress has been limited due to growing anti-immigration sentiment in the U.S. and reluctance from Congress.
Once released, the South Koreans are expected to be transported to Jacksonville International Airport in Florida, approximately 50 minutes by bus from the detention center.
On Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the raid and subsequent arrests would not affect the relationship with South Korea and that he would review the situation. The raid, which detained 475 individuals, including 300 South Koreans, was part of an investigation into unlawful workplace practices.