Seoul: The U.S. state of Georgia remains committed to ensuring the success of South Korean companies investing there, according to Brian Kemp, governor of the American state. This assurance comes amid ongoing visa concerns following a significant immigration raid involving hundreds of Korean workers in September.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kemp expressed his support during an interview in Seoul after meeting with executives from Hyundai Motor Group, SK Group, and LG Group. His visit to Seoul was to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Georgia's Seoul office. Kemp emphasized that Georgia is dedicated to providing world-class infrastructure and facilitating federal-level discussions to address concerns. He highlighted the importance of communication between South Korean companies and local communities to clarify the necessity of temporary workers.
Kemp's visit follows the arrest and detention of over 300 Korean workers during a U.S. immigration raid at a construction site for a Hyundai-LG Energy Solution battery joint venture in Georgia in early September. The workers were later released, with U.S. authorities questioning the appropriateness of visas held by some non-Korean workers. The governor clarified that the operation was conducted by federal authorities and that the state had no jurisdiction over visa or law enforcement matters related to the raid.
Kemp noted that he has communicated with the Donald Trump administration about the incident, which has raised concerns among the South Korean business community about the U.S. as a reliable investment partner. This incident occurred after South Korea pledged to invest $350 billion in the U.S. as part of a bilateral trade deal. Kemp highlighted discussions with President Trump regarding the need for skilled Korean workers and proposed a manufacturing visa to address visa-related issues.
Seoul and Washington have agreed to seek practical support to ensure smooth entry for South Korean business personnel into the U.S., with plans for a dedicated visa desk at the U.S. Embassy in Seoul. The construction of the affected battery plant has resumed, but completion is delayed until next year. Kemp reiterated Georgia's commitment to adapting to market needs and assisting companies in navigating federal tariff policies.