South Korea to probe potential human rights abuses in US raid

September 15, 2025

South Korea is investigating potential human rights violations following a US raid at a Georgia EV battery plant where over 300 South Korean workers were detained for a week before returning home. The South Korean government has expressed "strong regret" to the US and requested its citizens' rights be respected during law enforcement actions. This incident has strained relations between the countries despite South Korean firms planning billions in US investments under a trade deal to avoid tariffs.

Who is affected

More than 300 South Korean workers who were detained and then returned home
South Korean nationals among the approximately 475 people arrested at the Hyundai-operated plant
Hyundai, whose plant opening will be delayed by at least two months
South Korean companies planning to invest billions in America
US-South Korea diplomatic relations

What action is being taken

South Korean government is investigating potential human rights violations during the raid and detention
South Korea has expressed "strong regret" to the US
South Korea has officially asked that its citizens' rights and interests not be infringed during law enforcement proceedings
South Korean authorities are working with relevant companies to investigate human rights violations or other issues

Why it matters

The incident has tested diplomatic ties between the US and South Korea
It may discourage foreign investment in the US according to President Lee Jae-myung
It affects South Korean firms planning to invest billions in America under a trade deal
The plant's opening has been delayed by at least two months
It represents the largest single-location immigration raid since President Trump's crackdown on illegal migrants

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC