In a dramatic scene straight out of a thriller movie, U.S. federal agents raided a Hyundai-LG factory in Georgia this week, detaining over 300 South Korean workers in what’s being called the largest single-site immigration crackdown in Department of Homeland Security history. 🚁🚓
The Raid: Chaos at the Factory
Video footage released by U.S. authorities shows workers—many in Hyundai and LG vests—shackled and loaded onto buses after agents swarmed the plant with helicopters and armored vehicles. Two workers even tried hiding in a pond! 🌊 Over 475 people were arrested, with South Koreans making up the majority.
Seoul Steps In
South Korea’s government swiftly responded, calling the incident "deeply concerning." Foreign Minister Cho Hyun said they’re working to bring their citizens home, while Vice Minister Park Yoon-joo urged the U.S. to protect Korean companies’ rights. Diplomatic talks are heating up ahead of a potential Trump visit in October. 📞✈️
Hyundai & LG React
LG confirmed 47 employees (mostly Koreans) were detained, while Hyundai claimed none were directly employed by them. Both companies are now suspending U.S. business trips. LG’s spokesperson told workers to "return home or stay indoors"—a move that’s got K-drama levels of tension. 🚫🧳
U.S. Justifies the Crackdown
U.S. officials called it a "criminal investigation," alleging workers had invalid visas or crossed borders illegally. President Trump praised ICE for "doing its job," but the timing is awkward: this comes just weeks after a $350 billion U.S.-South Korea trade deal was announced. 💼⚖️
As both nations navigate this diplomatic tightrope, one thing’s clear: the factory raid could test their economic partnership—and leave workers caught in the crossfire.
