"Detained South Koreans Freed, Return Home After US Immigration Raid"

South Korean Workers Released from US Immigration Raid Return Home Safely Over 300 South Korean workers detained in a massive immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia have safely returned home after being released from detention, marking the end of a tumultuous ordeal that has shaken ties between the US and South Korea. The repatriation comes as one worker has chosen to remain in the US to pursue permanent residency, highlighting the complexities surrounding immigration and workforce policies. According to BBC Business, the incident has sparked concerns about the impact on US-South Korea relations, with both countries' leaders warning of potential consequences. 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), bringing an end to a week-long ordeal that began when US Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents raided the Hyundai plant, detaining hundreds of workers. According to Jean Mackenzie, reporting for BBC Business, "the return of the South Korean workers comes as the country's president and Hyundai's chief executive have warned about the impact of the raid." The incident has raised questions about the treatment of foreign workers in the US and the implications for businesses that rely on international labor. The immigration raid at the Hyundai plant was one of the largest in recent years, with over 600 workers detained. While most were eventually released, several remain in detention facilities awaiting deportation proceedings. According to Kelly Ng, also reporting for BBC Business, "the incident has highlighted the complexities surrounding immigration and workforce policies." As the repatriation process comes to a close, experts are weighing in on the implications of the raid. "This incident is a wake-up call for both countries," said Dr. Kim, a leading expert on US-South Korea relations at Seoul National University. "The treatment of foreign workers must be addressed, and businesses must take steps to ensure compliance with immigration laws." In a statement, Hyundai's chief executive acknowledged the company's responsibility in ensuring that all employees are in compliance with immigration regulations. The incident has sparked calls for greater cooperation between the US and South Korea on immigration issues. As one worker who chose to remain in the US told BBC Business, "I want to make a new life here and contribute to American society." The decision highlights the complexities of immigration policies and the human stories behind them. The repatriation of the South Korean workers marks a significant development in a saga that has captivated international attention. As relations between the US and South Korea continue to evolve, one thing is clear: the incident will have far-reaching implications for businesses, governments, and individuals on both sides of the Pacific. This story was compiled from reports by BBC Business and BBC Business.