US official regrets detention of Korean workers in Georgia

US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau on Sunday expressed regret over the recent detention of hundreds of South Korean workers in Georgia. Landau, in Seoul for a Korea-US vice foreign ministerial meeting, said the 316 South Koreans who returned home Friday on a chartered jet after being detained in Georgia will face no disadvantage when re-entering the US, according to South Korea’s foreign ministry.

Earlier this month, US immigration authorities carried out a raid on a Hyundai Motor Co.-LG Energy Solution Ltd. battery plant under construction in Georgia. Images of detained workers being lined up and restrained sparked public outcry in South Korea, as the workers had been dispatched to help get the plant operational.

Landau acknowledged the significant role Korean companies play in revitalizing US manufacturing. Both sides discussed accelerating consultations to ensure work visas are issued appropriately in recognition of Korean workers’ contributions. Despite having a free trade agreement with the US since 2012, South Korea has never received a dedicated visa quota, unlike several other FTA partners. The US has granted specific quotas to Australia, Singapore and Chile, while Canada and Mexico face no caps, according to law firms. This remains a key source of frustration for Seoul, underscoring a gap in the bilateral economic relationship.