US immigration authorities conducted a large-scale raid at a Hyundai manufacturing facility in Georgia, resulting in the arrest of over 450 individuals suspected of unlawful employment practices. The operation, carried out by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), followed a search warrant issued by the Department of Homeland Security, which cited allegations of “unlawful employment practices and other serious federal crimes.”

The 3,000-acre site, operated by the HL-GA Battery Company, had been producing electric vehicles for a year prior to the raid. South Korean officials expressed concern over the detentions, with the foreign ministry labeling the action an “unjust infringement” on the rights of nationals. Hyundai Motor Company stated it was unaware of direct ties to the detained individuals, emphasizing its commitment to worker safety and well-being.

Separate raids occurred in New York, where over 40 adults were arrested at a food manufacturing plant in Cato. New York Governor Kathy Hochul condemned the operation, calling it “cruel” for separating families and leaving children without caregivers. The raids involved multiple federal agencies, including ICE and Customs and Border Protection, with local sheriff’s offices assisting in the enforcement.

No further details were provided by authorities regarding the scope of the investigations or the number of South Korean nationals detained.