More than 400 agents from the Department of Homeland Security recently stormed the Hyundai complex in Ellabell, Georgia. The city recently was the site of one of the largest immigration raids in U.S. history. This operation is unique in that it is the largest single-site enforcement action in U.S. history. It stems from credible allegations of unlawful employment discrimination at the plant. The raid resulted in the arrest of over 330 undocumented workers, most of them workers who were South Korean nationals.
Hyundai, which has invested $7.6 billion in its manufacturing plant in Georgia, employs more than 1,200 workers directly. Along with producing vehicles, the facility serves as a collaborative and creative hub. It is building a new battery cell factory with LG Energy Solution. Hyundai’s swift reaction to the immigration raid is commendable. The company released an official response, reiterating its commitment to comply with all laws and regulations in each of the markets in which it operates.
“The goal of this operation is to reduce illegal employment and prevent employers from gaining an unfair advantage by hiring unauthorized workers,” – Margaret Heap, U.S. Attorney.
The South Korean government has expressed concern and regret to the U.S. Embassy. They are making a targeted case about the way their nationals have been treated during this operation. Lee Jae-woong, a spokesperson for South Korea’s foreign ministry, emphasized that economic activities of investment firms should not infringe upon the rights of their nationals.
“In the course of U.S. law enforcement, the economic activities of our investment firms and the rights and interests of our nationals must not be unjustly infringed upon,” – Lee Jae-woong.
The raid came at a time of increased concern over foreign corporations operating in the U.S. Donald Trump weighed in publicly through his social media platform on the issue, calling on foreign firms to comply with U.S. immigration laws. He added that although investments are certainly appreciated, the companies need to commit to hiring and training American workers.
“Your Investments are welcome, and we encourage you to LEGALLY bring your very smart people, with great technical talent, to build World Class products, and we will make it quickly and legally possible for you to do so. What we ask in return is that you hire and train American Workers,” – Donald Trump.
In a strong reaction to the raid, President Lee Jae Myung’s office announced that… They announced that those under detention, including Hyundai employees, will be repatriated to South Korea on a chartered flight. This decision is intended to remedy ongoing and systemic violations of the rights of South Korean workers participating in the arrangement.
Hyundai’s initial Delaware statement also touted its commitment to good treatment of all its workers. The firm invites all to check out its new official website. There, it unambiguously states its intention to follow local laws and regulations.
This raid has far-reaching implications that extend far beyond immediate legal matters. It gets to the heart of what kind of treatment in the U.S. labor market is acceptable for foreign workers, and where the balance lies between enforcement actions and employee rights. As the investigations move forward, stakeholders in both countries are watching and waiting.