President Lee Jae Myung announced that South Korean employees held by US immigration officials in Georgia would be freed at 3 p.m. Seoul time, expressing worries that Korean corporations might become reluctant to invest in the US following the immigration enforcement action.
During a press briefing commemorating his first 100 days in office, Lee stated that the US immigration enforcement at a Hyundai-LG battery facility could make Korean businesses "extremely cautious" when considering direct investment opportunities in America.
Lee indicated that the enforcement action would influence corporations planning to establish manufacturing facilities in the US, as they may worry about receiving "unfavorable" treatment from American authorities.
Also Read: Hyundai Motor Shows Small EV Concept to Expand Loniq Lineup
"According to reports, (they) will leave the detention facility at 3 p.m.," Lee said.
A chartered aircraft transporting 306 South Koreans, ten of whom are women, along with 14 individuals of other nationalities, is scheduled to leave at approximately 1 a.m. on Friday and reach Seoul during the afternoon hours, according to Lee, who mentioned that one employee chose to stay in the US due to a family member holding permanent residency status.
Also Read: Japan's Space Endeavors: From a Peaceful Stance to a Space Power
"President Donald Trump ordered, 'Let them return freely, but those who don't want to go don't have to.' So the process was temporarily halted to change the administrative procedures," he states.
Lee stated that the flight, originally scheduled for Wednesday, was postponed when American authorities demanded that the workers be restrained with handcuffs during transport. Seoul voiced strong objections, he reported, leading Washington to change its position following "guidance from the White House."
Also Read: Ultrathin Fuel Cells: Converting Glucose into Electric Energy
He highlighted positive trends in economic data and recovery in financial markets, referencing the main Korea Composite Stock Price Index achieving an all-time peak earlier that day.
He further committed to enhancing diplomatic ties with North Korea and advancing initiatives aimed at fostering stability across the Korean Peninsula.