More than 300 South Korean workers detained after a large-scale immigration raid at a Hyundai plant ‌in Georgia ⁣will be⁣ repatriated, the south Korean government announced Sunday, September 3, 2023.⁢ The announcement​ follows diplomatic efforts and expressions of concern from ⁢seoul regarding the treatment of its citizens.

Most of those detained were held at an immigration detention center in Folkston, Georgia, near the Florida state line. As of Friday, ⁤September 1, 2023, none ‌had been charged with any crimes,​ according to Steven Schrank, the lead Georgia agent of Homeland Security Investigations, during a news conference. The inquiry remains ongoing.
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‌ The South Korean government, a close U.S. ally, expressed “concern and regret” over the raid targeting its ⁣citizens and dispatched diplomats to the site to monitor the situation and advocate for⁢ thier workers.
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Background: The⁣ Hyundai Plant and Workforce

⁣ The Hyundai plant in Bryan ‍County, Georgia, is a major employer ‍in the region. It began vehicle production in 2009 and currently produces the hyundai Santa Fe and Sonata. The plant employs approximately 4,500 people. The workforce includes both American citizens and foreign nationals,⁢ many of whom are South Korean.
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‍ The specific nature of⁣ the ⁢immigration concerns that prompted the raid has not been fully detailed. However,reports suggest the investigation focused on potential documentation irregularities.

Timeline of Events

• September 1, 2023: Steven Schrank‌ of Homeland Security Investigations confirms over 300 workers detained, no⁤ charges filed, and investigation ongoing.
• September 3, 2023: South Korean government announces the release and repatriation of the detained workers.