Urgent: Plane Leaves South Korea to Bring Back 475 Detained Workers
UPDATE: A South Korean charter plane has just departed from Incheon International Airport to the United States, tasked with bringing back 475 workers detained during a recent immigration raid in Georgia. More than 300 of these workers are South Korean nationals, captured in a crackdown that has drawn significant international attention.
The raid, conducted by the U.S. Homeland Security agency on September 4, targeted a battery factory under construction at Hyundai’s auto plant near Savannah. Disturbing video footage released by U.S. authorities showed some workers in chains, shackled at their hands, ankles, and waists. These images have sparked outrage and concern across South Korea and beyond.
South Korea’s government has confirmed that an agreement was reached with U.S. authorities for the workers’ release. The charter plane, seen taking off early Wednesday morning, is expected to return to South Korea with the detained workers by Thursday afternoon, according to local media reports.
This incident marks the largest workplace raid conducted by U.S. immigration officials to date, reflecting an aggressive stance in the ongoing mass deportation efforts under the current administration. The raid particularly impacts Georgia, a state where numerous large South Korean enterprises are either established or planning future investments.
Earlier this month, South Korea pledged billions in U.S. investments, aiming to solidify trade relations and achieve a tariff deal with the U.S. This backdrop makes the current situation even more crucial, as tensions could potentially affect these economic agreements.
President Donald Trump asserted this week that the detained workers “were here illegally,” emphasizing the need for the U.S. to collaborate with other nations to train American citizens in specialized fields like battery and computer manufacturing. This statement underscores a larger narrative concerning immigration policies and labor demand in the tech-driven economy.
As this situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the return of these workers will impact bilateral relations between South Korea and the United States. The emotional toll on the families of the detained workers is palpable, with many awaiting news of their loved ones’ safe return.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops. The implications of these actions resonate far beyond the immediate circumstances, affecting diplomatic ties and economic futures.
