Seoul: More than 300 South Korean workers returned home Friday following a weeklong detention by U.S. immigration authorities in Georgia. The incident, which involved an immigration sweep at an electric car battery plant co-run by Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution Ltd., raised concerns in Seoul and prompted diplomatic negotiations with Washington.
According to Yonhap News Agency, a Korean Air chartered plane carrying 316 South Koreans, including a pregnant woman, and 14 foreigners, landed at Incheon International Airport. The workers, released from detention facilities in Folkston, were part of intensive negotiations led by Seoul to secure their return. Upon arrival, they were greeted by family members and the Presidential chief of staff, Kang Hoon-sik, who expressed regret over the delay in their return and emphasized the need for U.S. visa system reforms.
The incident underscored differences in how both countries interpret the B-1 visa for businesspeople. While Seoul seeks to address these gaps, Foreign Minister Cho Hyun announced the formation of a working group with the U.S. to tackle visa issues. This group aims to streamline visa processes, ensuring swift issuance for corporate investments.
Security was heightened at the airport due to the media attention the incident attracted. The detentions had caused public outrage in South Korea, especially after video footage showed the workers being shackled and handcuffed. The diplomatic fallout led to high-level meetings between South Korean diplomats and U.S. officials, resulting in an agreement for voluntary departure rather than deportation.
The delay in the workers' release was reportedly influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump's encouragement for them to stay, reflecting his administration's interest in expanding industrial cooperation with Seoul. While most workers have returned home, one South Korean individual remains in custody in the U.S., seeking legal recourse.
The incident highlighted the challenges faced by South Korean businesses operating in the U.S. under current visa regulations, prompting calls for reforms. President Lee Jae Myung expressed concern over potential hesitations from companies regarding future U.S. investments if such issues persist, emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogue for visa reform.