Overview

• ICE detained roughly 475 workers on Sept. 4 at the Hyundai–LG battery site near Savannah, with more than 300 South Koreans returned home after about a week in custody.
• Hyundai CEO José Muñoz said many detainees were specialists doing final calibration and testing, called for a tailored short‑term visa, and noted the raid will delay the battery plant by two to three months.
• Seoul launched a human‑rights investigation after detainees reported shackling, crowded and unsanitary conditions, lack of interpreters, and officers pointing guns during the operation.
• U.S. and South Korean officials are discussing a visa working group, and a Congressional Research Service note highlighted proposals such as an E‑4 allotment for Korean specialists under the Partner with Korea Act.
• Georgia economic leaders and Gov. Brian Kemp urged visa clarity as subcontractors paused work or told staff to stay home, and President Donald Trump sought to reassure foreign investors that expert workers are welcome if they comply with U.S. law.