Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung expressed concerns Thursday that a significant U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid targeting South Korean workers in Georgia could lead Korean companies to reconsider their direct investments in the United States. The raid at a Hyundai-LG battery plant has raised fears among Korean companies about potential unfavorable treatment by U.S. authorities, Lee stated during a press conference marking his first 100 days in office.
According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee emphasized that the incident might cause Korean firms to be "very hesitant" about establishing operations in the U.S., adding that detained Korean workers would be released at 3 p.m. (Seoul time). He noted that companies might find it "disadvantageous or difficult" to set up factories due to concerns over similar treatment, highlighting the detainees' scheduled release and the departure of a chartered plane carrying 316 Koreans and 14 foreign nationals.
Lee explained that the departure, initially set for Wednesday, faced delays after U.S. officials insisted on handcuffing the workers. Following Seoul's strong protests, Washington reversed the decision, citing a directive from the White House, allowing for their free return unless they chose to stay. Lee mentioned ongoing discussions with Washington to enhance visa regulations, potentially offering investment-related visas and additional quotas for Korean workers.
The ICE raid has prompted calls to ease barriers for Korean workers as South Korean companies continue to expand their U.S. investments amid the Trump administration's efforts to boost American industries. Regarding the ongoing trade negotiations with the U.S., Lee assured that his government would prioritize national interests and avoid "backroom agreements."
Negotiations have so far resulted in a broad trade deal, reducing U.S. tariffs in exchange for a $350 billion investment pledge from Seoul. However, the final agreement is still under negotiation, with Lee maintaining that outcomes will be reached on a rational basis despite appearing excessive or unreasonable during discussions.
In light of his 100-day presidency, Lee reiterated his commitment to political and administrative integration and serving all citizens. On North Korea, he acknowledged limited progress in inter-Korean relations but affirmed his dedication to peace efforts on the peninsula, stressing the importance of U.S. coordination.
Lee also addressed relations with Japan, advocating a pragmatic diplomatic approach amid ongoing historical and territorial disputes. He emphasized the need to separate these issues from future-oriented social, economic, and cultural exchanges.
On economic matters, Lee pledged to bolster the stock market and expressed openness to adjusting criteria for major shareholders to encourage investor confidence. He also discussed judicial reforms and dismissed criticism of legislative efforts to establish a special tribunal for allegations related to former President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed martial law bid, emphasizing the importance of public will and legislative sovereignty.