U.S. Diplomat Regrets Immigration Raid on Korean Workers, Calls for Stronger Ties

A top U.S. diplomat has expressed regret over a recent immigration raid in Georgia that detained hundreds of South Korean workers, signaling a push to turn the incident into an opportunity to strengthen U.S.-South Korea relations.

During a meeting in Seoul, First Vice Foreign Minister Park Yoon-joo urged U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau to advance talks on follow-up measures, including the creation of a new visa category tailored for Korean professionals. The South Korean foreign ministry emphasized that such steps are vital to prevent future incidents and support large-scale investments by Korean companies in the U.S.

The raid, which targeted a Hyundai Motor battery plant, led to the detention of about 300 South Korean workers. The workers returned home last week to emotional reunions, but the event sparked public outrage in South Korea, a key American ally. Seoul has since pressed Washington for clearer guidelines on existing business visas and additional measures to safeguard Korean nationals working in the U.S.

According to the ministry, Landau acknowledged the importance of Korean contributions to U.S. manufacturing and called for accelerated consultations to ensure visa processes match the scale of investment by Korean firms. He also reassured that President Donald Trump had decided the detained workers would not face disadvantages upon re-entry into the U.S.

Park described Landau’s visit as timely and highlighted the need for cooperation to avoid disruptions that could undermine bilateral economic ties. Korean companies, particularly in the auto and battery sectors, play a critical role in revitalizing U.S. industry, making stable visa policies essential for future growth.

The U.S. Embassy in Seoul was not immediately available for comment.