Georgia Factory Raid Leads to Arrest of Over 300 workers, Sparks Diplomatic Concerns
Elabel, Georgia – A large-scale raid at a future electric vehicle (EV) battery plant site in Georgia led to the arrest of 475 individuals, with authorities confirming that over 300 where Korean nationals suspected of being illegally employed.The operation, conducted at the HL-GA Battery facility – a joint venture between Hyundai Motor and LG Energy Solutions - has prompted consideration of a visit to the United States by South Korea‘s top diplomat to address the fallout.
The arrests, carried out by Immigration and Customs Examination Bureau (ICE), come as South Korea is considerably increasing investment in the U.S., recently pledging $350 billion, including $150 billion earmarked for rebuilding the U.S. shipbuilding industry.The HL-GA battery plant is a key component of Hyundai’s expansion plans and a cornerstone of Georgia Governor kemp’s economic advancement strategy,intended to supply batteries to Hyundai’s new EV production base.
Special Agent Steve Schrank, who oversees the investigation, stated that workers found to be illegally employed were handed over to ICE and are subject to deportation proceedings. the raid occurred shortly after a summit meeting between President Lee Jae-myong and President Trump in Washington on August 25th, following which Hyundai announced an increase in its U.S. investment to $26 billion by 2028.
The situation has raised diplomatic concerns, with South Korea potentially sending its top diplomat to the U.S. to discuss the matter, according to a Bloomberg report.
