South Korea has announced an investigation into possible human rights violations after hundreds of its citizens were detained in a US immigration raid.
Largest Single-Site Immigration Raid
On September 4, 2025, about 475 people, mostly South Korean nationals, were arrested at an electric vehicle battery factory construction site in Georgia. This was the largest single-site operation since President Donald Trump launched his immigration crackdown.
Images of workers in chains and handcuffs shocked South Korea. The incident prompted strong criticism from Seoul and raised diplomatic concerns.
Reports of Poor Treatment
After diplomatic negotiations, the detained workers were released and flown back to South Korea.
Some workers told local media that their rights were not read during arrest. Others said ICE agents mocked them, making references to “North Korea” and “rocket man,” a term Trump has previously used for Kim Jong-un.
Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said, “Both our side and the US are checking if there were any shortcomings in the measures taken, and companies are also looking into it.”
President Lee Warns on Investment Risks
South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung called the raid “bewildering.” He warned that such incidents could discourage future investment.
“South Korean companies can’t help but question whether setting up a plant in the US is worth the potential risks,” Lee said.
Trump’s Response
In response, President Trump said foreign workers are welcome and that he does not want to scare off investors. On September 14, he wrote on Truth Social: “I don’t want to frighten off or disincentivize investment.”
Ongoing Review
South Korea’s government is now conducting a thorough review of the incident. Officials are examining whether human rights standards were violated and how to prevent similar situations in the future.
