South Korea and the United States have agreed to release more than 300 South Korean workers who were detained during a large-scale immigration enforcement operation at a Hyundai plant construction site in Georgia. The deal comes after several days of diplomatic negotiations between officials from both countries. https://www.fox10tv.com

The workers were among hundreds detained when U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents carried out a raid at a sprawling electric vehicle battery factory site in southern Georgia. Federal authorities said they arrested 475 people suspected of being in the country illegally. A majority of those detained were reported to be South Korean nationals working at the site, which is part of a major joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution. https://www.fox10tv.com

South Korea’s presidential chief of staff announced that negotiations with U.S. authorities had concluded, clearing the way for the workers’ release. The South Korean government said it would send a charter plane to bring its citizens home once administrative steps are completed. https://www.fox10tv.com

The U.S. operation, one of the largest workplace immigration raids conducted in recent years, targeted workers at a still-under-construction battery plant. Officials said those detained were taken to a detention center in Georgia, though none had been formally charged with crimes at the time of the release agreement. https://www.fox10tv.com

South Korean diplomats and officials expressed concern and regret over the detention of their citizens, and made multiple appeals for their safe and swift return. Foreign Ministry representatives traveled to Georgia to assist with consular support and help resolve the situation before the agreement was reached. https://www.fox10tv.com

The incident has drawn attention in Seoul, where leaders emphasized that law enforcement actions should not unfairly disrupt major international business projects and investment initiatives. The Korean government has also signaled an interest in working with U.S. officials to address visa and labor-mobility issues to prevent similar disruptions in the future. The Korea Times

The agreement marks a diplomatic success in settling a delicate situation involving two close allies, and it underscores ongoing discussions about immigration enforcement, international cooperation, and economic ties between the United States and South Korea.