Sat Sep 06 11:33:45 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**South Korea Expresses “Deep Concern” After Mass Arrest of Citizens at US Battery Plant**

Seoul, South Korea – The South Korean government has expressed serious concern following a large-scale immigration raid at a Hyundai Motor-LG Energy Solution battery plant near Savannah, Georgia, resulting in the detention of over 300 South Korean nationals. The raid, conducted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), saw approximately 475 workers arrested for alleged immigration violations.

President Lee Jae-myung has ordered an all-out response to address the situation, emphasizing the need to protect the rights and business interests of South Korean citizens and companies investing in the United States. Foreign Minister Cho Hyun stated that the government is taking the matter extremely seriously and may travel to Washington D.C. to consult with U.S. officials. A response team has already been formed within the Foreign Ministry.

“We are deeply concerned and feel a heavy sense of responsibility over the arrests of our nationals,” Minister Cho stated before an emergency meeting.

ICE official Steven Schrank justified the operation, citing that some detainees illegally crossed the border, while others worked in violation of their visa terms or overstayed their visas. President Trump, responding to a reporter’s question, remarked that the detainees were “illegal aliens” and ICE was simply “doing its job.”

The opposition People Power Party (PPP) has strongly criticized the arrests, calling them a “grave matter” with potentially serious repercussions for Korean businesses and communities in the U.S. They accuse President Lee’s administration of failing to secure the safety of its citizens despite significant investment pledges to the U.S.

Both Hyundai and LG Energy Solution stated they are closely monitoring the situation and cooperating with relevant authorities. Hyundai emphasized that those detained are not directly employed by the company.

The incident comes at a sensitive time, as South Korean companies have invested heavily in U.S. manufacturing facilities to access the market and avoid potential tariff threats. The plant in question is intended to supply batteries for electric vehicles, highlighting the strategic importance of South Korean investment in the U.S. economy.

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