Federal immigration authorities conducted a sweeping raid on September 4, 2025, at a Hyundai-LG battery plant construction site in Bryan County, Georgia, detaining approximately 450 undocumented workers. The operation, one of the largest immigration enforcement actions in recent U.S. history, involved ICE, FBI, DEA, ATF, and Georgia State Patrol. It targeted alleged unlawful employment practices at the $7.6 billion facility, a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution, which is set to produce batteries for electric vehicles.
The raid halted construction at the site, part of Hyundai’s massive EV manufacturing complex employing about 1,200 workers. Authorities executed a search warrant amid an ongoing criminal investigation into federal crimes, including potential exploitation of workers. Over 300 of those detained were reportedly South Korean nationals, prompting Seoul to express “concern and regret” over the operation, urging the U.S. to protect the rights of its citizens and companies.
Hyundai stated that none of the detained workers were direct employees and pledged cooperation with authorities. LG Energy Solution is working with the South Korean government to ensure the safety and release of affected workers. The raid has drawn criticism from local officials, who see the plant as a cornerstone of Georgia’s economic development, promising 8,500 jobs by 2030.
The operation reflects the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration crackdown, raising questions about balancing economic growth with enforcement. As investigations continue, the raid’s impact on U.S.-South Korea relations and local communities remains under scrutiny.
