video screenshot

 

The White House has issued an apology to Hyundai's CEO, José Muñoz, following a contentious immigration raid at a battery plant in Georgia. The raid detained over 300 South Korean workers and heightened diplomatic tensions between the US and South Korea. The governor of Georgia also contacted Mr Muñoz, acknowledging the state's lack of jurisdiction over the events.

 

In September, the Hyundai and LG-operated plant became the focal point of a major incident when workers were shackled and detained, provoking outrage in South Korea. The South Korean government engaged in urgent discussions with the US, leading to the workers' release after more than a week. The incident delayed the plant's opening, resulting in a labour shortage that impacted operations.

 

Mr Muñoz, addressing a business conference in Singapore, suggested the raid was triggered by false claims of illegal immigration at the plant. Despite the unexpected nature of the incident, he reaffirmed Hyundai's commitment to US manufacturing. Despite the diplomatic strain, the US and South Korea resolved to address trade issues by reducing tariffs and agreeing on significant South Korean investment in the US.

 

US President Donald Trump commented on the raid, expressing strong opposition. He emphasised a shared understanding with international partners regarding the importation of skilled workers to establish specialised facilities and provide training. This reassurance comes as the countries recently finalised a trade agreement, lowering tariffs and fostering foreign investment in the US, reported the BBC.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• The White House apologised to Hyundai following a controversial raid.
• The diplomatic tension was resolved with a trade agreement by October.
• The raid led to delays in the plant's opening, impacting operations.

 

Related story: 

South Korea confirms detained Hyundai workers will be released

ICE detains nearly 500 at Hyundai plant in largest raid yet

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-11-20

 

 

 

ICE overreach. They ain't white, let's arrest 'em. Actually, their skin colour looks pretty Messican...

ICE are the new domestic terrorists. I would love to see more attacks by deli sandwiches. They richly deserve that. Mustard on their faces!