Seoul: The detention of more than 300 South Korean workers during a U.S. immigration raid has sparked significant concerns among South Korean companies, with many questioning the reliability of the United States as a destination for investment. This situation has been closely observed by industry experts.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the raid occurred on Thursday at a construction site for an electric vehicle battery plant being developed by a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution Ltd. This site is located in Bryan County, near Savannah, Georgia. The unexpected crackdown has led to confusion within the South Korean business community, prompting firms to reassess the risks and the overall political climate for conducting business in the U.S.

Kim Pil-soo, an automotive engineering professor at Daelim University, described the incident as "humiliating" and cautioned that it might lead to a slowing down or even a reevaluation of U.S.-based projects. "This was not just about detaining some 300 people -- it was an insult. Inevitably, U.S. investment will have to be reconsidered or delayed," Kim stated to Yonhap News Agency.

The professor, known for his influence in South Korea's automotive sector, has advised businesses to reevaluate their strategies in the U.S. following the incident. He pointed out issues such as the shortage of skilled workers, high labor costs, and the presence of strong labor unions in the U.S. as factors to consider in future investment decisions.