South Korean Workers Released from US Immigration Raid Return Home

South Korean Workers Detained in US Raid Arrive Home SEOUL, South Korea - More than 300 South Koreans who were detained in a massive immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in the US state of Georgia arrived back home on Thursday, bringing an end to their ordeal. The return comes as the country's president and Hyundai's chief executive have warned about the impact of the raid. A chartered Korean Air jet carrying the workers and 14 non-Koreans who were also detained in the raid took off from Atlanta at midday local time on Thursday (17:00 BST). One South Korean national has reportedly chosen to stay in the US to seek permanent residency. The incident has shaken ties between the US and South Korea, whose companies are investing billions in the States. "This is a wake-up call for both countries," said Lee Jae Myung, President of South Korea. "We need to work together to ensure that our citizens are treated fairly and with respect." The raid on the Hyundai plant was carried out by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on January 31. The agency claimed that it had detained over 600 workers who were suspected of being in the country illegally. However, the South Korean government disputed this claim, saying that many of the detainees had valid visas or work permits. "We are concerned about the lack of transparency and due process in the raid," said a spokesperson for the South Korean Ministry of Justice. The incident has sparked widespread outrage in South Korea, with many calling for greater protection for their citizens working abroad. "This is not just an issue of immigration policy, but also a matter of national sovereignty," said a prominent South Korean politician. The US government has defended its actions, saying that it was simply enforcing the law. However, the incident has highlighted the complex and often contentious relationship between the two countries on issues related to trade, investment, and labor. As the workers return home, they will be greeted by a mixture of relief and anger. "We are relieved that our friends and colleagues have finally returned," said a spokesperson for the Hyundai union in South Korea. "But we are also angry about the way they were treated." The incident has significant implications for both countries, with many calling for greater cooperation on issues related to immigration and labor. As one expert noted, "This is not just a bilateral issue between the US and South Korea, but also a global challenge that requires a coordinated response from governments and international organizations." Background: The Hyundai plant in Georgia was established in 2015 as part of a major investment by the South Korean conglomerate in the US. The plant employs over 1,000 workers, many of whom are South Koreans. The raid on the plant was carried out under the Trump administration's "zero-tolerance" policy towards immigration. However, critics argue that this approach has led to widespread confusion and chaos among migrant communities. Additional Perspectives: "This incident highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability in US immigration policies," said a spokesperson for the South Korean Ministry of Justice. "We are committed to working with our partners in the US to ensure that our citizens are treated fairly and with respect," said Lee Jae Myung, President of South Korea. Current Status: The workers have returned home, but the incident has left many questions unanswered. The US government has promised to review its immigration policies, while the South Korean government is calling for greater cooperation on issues related to labor and trade. As one expert noted, "This is a complex issue that requires a nuanced response from both governments." *Reporting by Bbc.*