Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung announced on Thursday that South Korean workers detained by U.S. immigration authorities in Georgia are set to be released at 3 p.m. (Seoul time). The incident has raised concerns among Korean firms about investing in the U.S., following a raid on a Hyundai-LG battery plant.
According to Yonhap News Agency, President Lee warned that the immigration raid could make Korean companies hesitant to invest directly in the U.S., as they fear potential "disadvantageous" treatment by U.S. authorities. Lee expressed that this development might impact companies planning to establish factories in the U.S., as they could face challenges or disadvantages.
Lee confirmed that the detained workers will leave the detention facility at the specified time. A chartered plane, carrying 316 Koreans and 14 foreign nationals, is scheduled to depart around 1 a.m. Friday, arriving in Seoul in the afternoon. One worker has chosen to remain in the U.S. due to a family connection with a permanent resident.
The departure was initially delayed after U.S. officials suggested transporting the workers in handcuffs, a decision that Seoul protested. Following intervention from President Donald Trump, who directed that the workers should be allowed to return freely, the process was temporarily halted to adjust administrative procedures.
Lee also mentioned ongoing discussions with Washington to improve visa regulations for Korean workers, potentially including new investment-related visa categories. The crackdown on immigration has led to calls for easing barriers for Korean workers, as South Korean companies continue to increase investments in the U.S., encouraged by the Trump administration's focus on revitalizing American industries.
In the context of trade negotiations with Washington, Lee assured that the government is committed to protecting national interests and will not engage in "backroom agreements." A preliminary trade deal in July reduced U.S. tariffs in exchange for Seoul's significant investment pledge, but final negotiations are still underway.
Reflecting on his presidency's first 100 days, Lee emphasized his commitment to political and administrative integration, aiming to serve all citizens equally.