Seoul: South Korea expressed "concern and regret" following the detention of over 300 South Koreans during a U.S. immigration raid at an electric vehicle battery construction site in Georgia. The site, operated by Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution Ltd., saw U.S. authorities detain up to 450 workers, highlighting issues related to undocumented individuals.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the South Korean foreign ministry emphasized that the economic activities of its companies investing in the U.S., and the rights and interests of its nationals, should not be unfairly violated. Ministry spokesperson Lee Jae-woong conveyed these concerns through the U.S. Embassy in Seoul, following the raid conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations.

The South Korean government was not notified in advance of the raid, which targeted individuals possibly facing charges of illegal stay. A ministry official noted that the government is working to understand the situation and provide appropriate responses, including necessary consular support.

The South Korean consulate in Atlanta is forming a legal team with Korean American lawyers to visit the detained workers. Meanwhile, LG Energy Solution stated it is actively cooperating with the South Korean government to ensure the safety and release of its employees.

Hyundai Motor Group has not yet commented on the situation, as it investigates the circumstances surrounding the raid. Concerns persist over potential disruptions to Hyundai's other U.S. projects, including a new robot plant and a steel mill in Louisiana, as well as plans to expand production capacity at its Georgia-based EV and hybrid car manufacturing plant.