South Korea Investigates Human Rights Concerns After U.S. Factory Raid

South Korea has launched an inquiry into possible human rights violations after U.S. immigration agents detained dozens of Korean workers at a Hyundai-LG battery plant in Georgia earlier this month. The incident has sparked diplomatic discussions and raised questions about protections for foreign labor.

Details of the Raid

According to reports, U.S. immigration officers carried out an unannounced check at the Hyundai-LG battery facility in Georgia. A number of Korean staff were held for questions over visa paperwork.

People at the site said the scene was confusing. Some workers did not seem to know why they were being stopped. Families in Korea have since voiced concerns over treatment in detention facilities.

Seoul's Response

The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it will dispatch staff to Washington and Atlanta to look into the case. Seoul asked U.S. officials for a full explanation and stressed that Korean workers should be treated fairly under local law.

Rights groups in both countries also urged openness. They pointed out that rules for foreign employees are often complicated and leave workers uncertain about their status.

Broader Implications

The raid comes at a sensitive time in U.S.-Korea economic relations, as the two allies expand cooperation in electric vehicle and battery supply chains. Labor issues and immigration checks have now entered the picture, adding tension to the wider battery partnership.

Officials in Seoul said they plan to raise the case in future talks with Washington. The government has asked for clear guarantees that Korean staff abroad will be treated fairly.