Overview

• U.S. Homeland Security Investigations says 475 people were arrested at the Ellabell, Georgia battery complex in the largest single-site action in its history.
• South Korea estimates more than 300 of those detained are its citizens, with many held at ICE’s Folkston, Georgia facility.
• The enforcement operation stems from a criminal investigation into alleged illegal hiring practices and unauthorized work at the site.
• Hyundai says none of the detainees are its direct employees, while LG reports 47 of its staff were held and about 250 subcontractor workers were among those arrested.
• Seoul has sent diplomats, formed a task force, lodged concerns with the U.S. Embassy, and is preparing a charter flight once U.S. administrative steps are completed.