US Arrests 475 Mostly South Koreans in Largest Hyundai-LG Plant Raid

U.S. authorities conducted the largest single-site enforcement operation in Homeland Security Investigations history by arresting 475 individuals, mostly South Korean nationals, at a Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution battery plant construction site in Ellabell, Georgia. The arrests were part of a criminal investigation into unlawful employment practices and serious federal crimes, with detainees found to be illegally present in the U.S., including visa overstayers, those who entered on non-working visas, and some who crossed the border illegally. The detained workers were subcontractors for various companies, and none were directly employed by Hyundai according to the company; the detainees have been transferred to ICE for potential deportation. South Korea expressed concern and regret over the raid, urging the U.S. to respect the rights of its nationals and protect legitimate economic activities. This operation aligns with President Donald Trump's intensified immigration crackdown, which he has described as the largest deportation drive in U.S. history. U.S. officials emphasized the message that those violating federal laws and exploiting the workforce will be held accountable.