Lawyer: Detained Koreans Had Skills for Short-Term Jobs
News September 09, 2025

Lawyer: Detained Koreans Had Skills for Short-Term Jobs

A lawyer for several workers detained at a Hyundai factory in Georgia says many of the South Koreans rounded up in the immigration raid are engineers and equipment installers brought in for the highly specialized work of getting an electric battery plant online. Atlanta immigration attorney Charles Kuck, who represents...

**Lawyer: Detained Koreans Had Skills for Short-Term Jobs**

The recent immigration raid at a Hyundai factory in Georgia has sparked controversy, with a lawyer representing several of the detained workers claiming many possess specialized skills crucial for launching the company's new electric battery plant. According to Atlanta immigration attorney Charles Kuck, a significant number of the South Koreans taken into custody are engineers and equipment installers brought to the state specifically to assist in getting the highly anticipated plant operational.

Kuck argues that these individuals were not seeking long-term employment but were instead contracted for short-term assignments requiring expertise not readily available in the local workforce. Their specialized knowledge is essential for the intricate process of setting up and calibrating the complex machinery needed for electric battery production. The lawyer suggests that detaining these workers could potentially hinder the plant's progress and delay its projected launch date.

The immigration raid has raised questions about the plant's reliance on foreign workers and the potential implications for local job creation. While authorities have not released specific details about the reasons for the detentions, Kuck's statements highlight the complexity of the situation. He maintains that the detained Koreans were not violating immigration laws and were in the country legally, working under appropriate visas or permits designed for specialized, temporary assignments.

The attorney's claims emphasize the growing demand for skilled technicians and engineers in the rapidly expanding electric vehicle industry. As companies like Hyundai invest billions in new battery plants, they often require specialized expertise from around the globe to ensure the smooth and efficient rollout of these complex facilities. The situation underscores the need for clear and consistent immigration policies that allow companies to access the talent they need while also protecting the rights of workers and ensuring fair labor practices. The fate of the detained workers remains uncertain, but their lawyer is actively working to secure their release and ensure they can continue their vital work in getting the electric battery plant online.
Category: Technology