Ellabell, Georgia — United States
A coordinated, months-long investigation culminated on September 4, 2025, when U.S. immigration authorities raided a Hyundai–LG battery manufacturing site in Ellabell, Georgia — part of a major EV “Metaplant” project. The operation resulted in the detention of approximately 475 individuals, most of whom were South Korean nationals. The raid immediately halted construction at the multi-billion-dollar facility.
A deeply coordinated federal crackdown
Known as Operation Low Voltage, the raid was the result of a sprawling, months-long investigation into alleged unlawful employment practices across contractor networks. Over 400 federal agents from agencies including ICE, Homeland Security Investigations, FBI, DEA, IRS, and Georgia state authorities took part, executing search warrants in one of the largest single-site enforcement actions in DHS history.
The battery plant, a joint venture by Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution, is part of a $7.6 billion “Metaplant” campus — intended to be one of Georgia’s largest economic development projects.
During the raid, officials escorted workers in handcuffs, creating chaotic scenes captured in released footage.
Diplomatic fallout and negotiations
South Korea’s government responded swiftly with concern over the detained citizens. The Foreign Ministry stressed that “the rights and interests of our nationals must not be infringed during U.S. law enforcement proceedings.”
By September 7, a deal was finalised between South Korea and the U.S., paving the way for the release of the detained workers. Plans were made to repatriate them via a chartered flight pending administrative formalities.
Business disruption and political ramifications
Construction at the site was paused immediately after the raid. Hyundai clarified that none of the detained individuals were its direct employees and pledged to audit compliance among its subcontractors. LG Energy Solution similarly suspended U.S. travel for its employees and urged caution.
The raid sends a stark message about the tension between U.S. priorities for domestic manufacturing and stringent immigration enforcement. It raises concerns about the stability of foreign investment amid evolving regulatory realities.