South Korean president vows support after hundreds held in US ICE raid at Hyundai factory

“I am deeply concerned. I feel heavy responsibility for the arrests of our citizens,” Cho said, adding he may travel to Washington if needed.

US authorities said around 475 workers were detained at the factory near Savannah, including more than 300 South Koreans. The operation, involving armoured vehicles and a helicopter, was described by the Department of Homeland Security as the largest single-site enforcement action in its history.

A video released by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement showed workers shackled at the wrists, waist and ankles as they boarded a bus. Some wore yellow vests with company names such as “Hyundai” and “LG CNS”. The footage also showed two workers hiding in a pond before being arrested.

How US responded

Steven N Schrank, the special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama, said in a statement: “We welcome all companies who want to invest in the US, and if they need to bring workers in for building or other projects, that’s fine, but they need to do it the legal way.”

He added: “This operation sends a clear message that those who exploit the system and undermine our workforce will be held accountable.”

Hyundai’s response

Hyundai said it would review its suppliers and subcontractors to ensure compliance with regulations.

LG Energy Solution, Hyundai’s partner in building the plant, said 47 of its employees were among those detained along with about 250 contractor workers. It said staff had been asked to return from US business trips and travel to the United States would be suspended except for customer meetings.

The arrests come amid friction between Washington and Seoul over trade and investment. South Korean companies have pledged around $350 billion of investment in the United States.