South Korea is pushing the U.S. to create a new visa category for its professionals after 300 workers were arrested in a high-profile immigration raid at Hyundai’s Georgia battery plant. The incident has sparked diplomatic tensions as both nations negotiate a critical trade deal. 🇰🇷🇺🇸
Footage showed workers boarding buses from a detention center early Friday, unchained but exhausted, after U.S. authorities released them following a week-long hold. Only one worker accepted President Trump’s last-minute offer to stay and train Americans – the rest chose to return home. 🚌✈️
Hyundai CEO Jose Munoz confirmed the raid caused a 2-3 month delay in launching the $5.5 billion facility, a key part of America’s EV supply chain. 🔋⚡
U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick admitted the workers had "the wrong visas" but offered little sympathy: "Call me if you’re having problems getting visas next time" – a remark that’s gone viral in South Korea. 💬🔥
With 70% of South Korean firms reportedly struggling to secure proper U.S. work permits, both countries have now agreed to discuss visa reforms. Could this reshape tech manufacturing in America? Stay tuned. 👀💼
