The United States immigration authorities have arrested at least 450 people in a raid at a manufacturing site of Hyundai in Georgia, federal officials confirmed on Friday.
The installation of Hyundai, located in Ellabell, Georgia, approximately 30 miles west of Savannah, was raided “as part of an ongoing criminal investigation into accusations of illegal employment practices and other serious federal crimes,” according to a statement from a public affairs officer with the National Security Department.
“This operation underlines our commitment to protect jobs for Georgians, ensuring a leveling playing field for companies that comply with the law, safeguard the integrity of our economy and protect workers from exploitation,” the statement continued.
Hyundai issued a statement about the raid, saying that she was aware of the incident and “monitoring the situation closely and working to understand the specific circumstances.”
“As of today, we understand that none of the detainees is used directly by Hyundai Motor Company,” Hyundai said.
At a press conference on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of South Korea said that it has transmitted its “concerns and regrets” to the United States for the raid in an Hyundai-LG battery plant, “urging special attention to ensure that the legitimate rights and interests of our citizens are not violated.”
The Hyundai Motor Group Metapant America is seen on March 26, 2025 in Ellabell, GA.
Mike Stewart/AP
“The economic activities of our companies that invest in the US and the rights and interests of our nationals should not be unfairly violated,” said a spokesman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Consular officials were sent to the plant and were told to the local diplomatic missions to establish a working group to address the problems related to the raid.
“This investigation focuses on guaranteeing the responsibility of those who violate the law and defend the rule of law,” said the DHS spokesman.
Federal officials are planning a press information session to disseminate more information “regarding a recent criminal search order and application actions to combat illegal employment practices in the state of Georgia,” according to DHS officials.
