United Nations officials confirm over 300 South Korean nationals detained during a law enforcement action at a battery manufacturing facility in the United States

In a significant development, the largest immigration raid under President Donald Trump's administration targeted a battery factory under construction in Ellabell, Georgia. The joint project by South Korean companies Hyundai and LG Energy saw 475 workers arrested for alleged illegal employment.

The operation, which was a multi-month criminal investigation, stemmed from allegations of unlawful employment practices and serious federal crimes at the plant. The raid, involving a helicopter and armored vehicles, resulted in the arrest of workers, many of whom were wearing yellow vests with names such as "Hyundai" and "LG CNS".

According to the foreign minister in Seoul, more than 300 of the arrested individuals are believed to be South Korean nationals. The foreign minister expressed deep concern and a sense of responsibility over the matter, stating that the economic activities of South Korean investors and the rights of South Korean nationals must not be unjustly infringed.

The foreign minister also stated that he would travel to Washington for talks if necessary. South Korea had previously urged Washington to respect the rights of its citizens.

Schrank, the acting director of U. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), stated that those arrested were "illegally present in the United States" and "working unlawfully". Those arrested have been turned over to ICE for potential removal.

Trump confirmed that the arrested workers were "illegal aliens". A video released by ICE showed hundreds of workers standing up in front of a building, some wearing the yellow vests, and later showed Asian workers being shackled and getting on a bus after the raid.

Two workers were reported to have hidden in a pond before being arrested during the raid. The foreign ministry spokesperson, Lee Jae-woong, reiterated the concern, stating that the arrest of over 300 South Koreans at the plant near Savannah was the largest single-site enforcement operation in the US Department of Homeland Security's history.

The foreign minister expressed his intention to address the issue, stating, "We will do our best to protect the rights and interests of our citizens abroad." The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding immigration and employment practices in the United States.

United Nations officials confirm over 300 South Korean nationals detained during a law enforcement action at a battery manufacturing facility in the United States