TRN

WASHINGTON,D.C. – U.S. authorities⁤ have arrested 475 individuals, the ⁣vast majority of whom are South Korean nationals, in connection with alleged visa fraud related ⁣to a ⁣hyundai automotive factory currently ‍under construction in Georgia, ⁤federal prosecutors announced Wednesday.the arrests, part of an ongoing investigation, center around claims‌ that ⁣individuals were ‌brought to the United States with false ‍pretenses – specifically, ⁣visas ⁢obtained under the​ guise of tourism when their true intent was to work at the ⁢sprawling⁤ Hyundai plant in Bryan County. The⁢ scheme ‌allegedly involved ​recruitment agencies promising ⁣employment opportunities​ while circumventing standard labour and‍ immigration protocols.The investigation, led by the Department of Homeland Security, highlights ongoing concerns about labor exploitation and the integrity of the U.S.visa system as major manufacturers expand operations⁤ within the country.

The ⁢Hyundai Motor Group is investing $5.5 billion in the Georgia facility, slated to produce electric vehicles⁤ and batteries, and is expected to create thousands of ‌jobs. The‌ alleged visa fraud casts a shadow over the project and raises questions about labor practices within the supply ‍chain. Prosecutors allege the scheme deprived qualified American ​workers of legitimate employment opportunities and perhaps subjected the foreign ⁤nationals to exploitative working‌ conditions.

South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed regret ‍over the incident, ​stating it is indeed closely monitoring the situation and providing consular support to those ‌affected. A ministry spokesperson confirmed they are ⁤in interaction ⁣with U.S. authorities to ensure the rights ‌and ⁢well-being⁢ of ⁢its citizens are ‌protected.

“We are⁤ deeply concerned by the reports and​ are committed to assisting our nationals who may have been victims of this alleged fraud,” the spokesperson said. “We are cooperating fully with​ the U.S. investigation.”

The investigation remains ​active, and further ​arrests ⁣are possible as authorities continue to unravel the extent of the alleged scheme.Those arrested face​ charges including visa fraud, conspiracy, and harboring undocumented workers.‍ The case⁢ underscores the challenges of ‍balancing economic⁢ progress with the need‌ to uphold labor standards and immigration laws.