A leaked document from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reveals that at least one Korean worker detained in a raid on a Hyundai Motor factory site in Georgia last week was living and working legally in the United States. The internal file, obtained by the Guardian, states that the individual entered the US with a valid B1/B2 visa and had not violated its terms, yet was mandated to agree to voluntary departure.
The document, written by an ICE agent, contradicts the agency’s initial claim that all 475 people arrested were working illegally or violating their visas. Immigration attorney Charles Kuck, who represents several detainees, described the detention as 'outrageous' and 'unlawful', arguing that holding a valid visa holder constitutes a crime of unlawful imprisonment.
According to the leaked file, the Atlanta Field Office Director mandated the man’s removal despite his compliance with visa requirements. The worker accepted voluntary departure, though he had not violated his B1/B2 visa, which permits certain business activities and tourism.
Approximately 300 of those arrested are South Korean nationals and could face deportation flights as early as Wednesday, according to a source familiar with the situation. Non-Koreans arrested are expected to remain in ICE detention. The raid occurred at a Hyundai battery plant under construction in Ellabell, Georgia, as part of a $12.6bn investment programme.
A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) told the Guardian that the individual had admitted to unauthorised work on his visa, directly contradicting the leaked document. When pressed, DHS reiterated its statement. ICE did not respond to requests for comment about the detention of legal workers. Critics argue that the crackdown has swept up legitimate visa holders alongside alleged violators.
