Massive Immigration Raid at Hyundai Plant Detains Hundreds!

2025-09-06 06:00:30.134

Immigration authorities detained 475 people, primarily South Korean nationals, during a raid at Hyundai's Georgia electric vehicle manufacturing site. The raid, described as the largest single-site enforcement operation in Homeland Security Investigations' two-decade history, followed a months-long probe into allegations of illegal hiring. The operation targeted a plant under construction where Hyundai partners with LG Energy Solution to produce EV batteries. The South Korean government expressed "concern and regret," noting the rarity of Koreans being involved in such immigration enforcement actions. While some detainees illegally crossed the U.S. border, others had expired visas or violated visa waiver terms prohibiting work. The investigation is ongoing, with no charges yet filed. The raid sparked reactions, with Georgia's Democratic Party condemning it as politically motivated, while Republican officials emphasized the need for all employers to comply with the law. The incident raised concerns among local business owners who rely on Hyundai workers, and some residents questioned the plant's impact on the local job market. Hyundai stated it would review its practices to ensure compliance with U.S. employment laws.