Hyundai’s Georgia Metaplant in Savannah, Georgia, has been making headlines today as law enforcement officers, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, raided the facility. Reports indicate that about 475 people, mostly South Korean nationals, were detained during the operation. Despite these detainments, Hyundai has assured that car production at the factory will not be impacted.
The Savannah Metaplant is a critical facility for Hyundai as it manufactures the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9 electric SUVs in the United States. However, today’s raid marked the largest-ever Homeland Security enforcement operation at a single location. According to a statement from Hyundai Motor America officials, none of the detained workers were directly employed by the Korean automaker but were rather working for LG Energy Solution, the plant’s co-owner and operator of the nearby battery facility.
Hyundai emphasized its commitment to full compliance with all laws and regulations in every market where it operates, including employment verification requirements and immigration laws. The company stated that it is reviewing its processes to ensure that all parties involved in their projects maintain high standards of legal compliance.
The raid at the Metaplant comes amid the Trump administration’s increased focus on immigration-related detentions and deportations. While the administration has vowed to target criminals and individuals who pose a threat, many of those detained in today’s operation were reportedly not accused of any crimes. ICE officials stated that the raid was part of an active criminal investigation and that the individuals arrested were found to be working illegally in violation of their visas or statuses.
Despite the ongoing situation, Hyundai remains committed to the safety and well-being of all individuals working at their sites, whether directly employed or working for suppliers. The company stressed the importance of robust oversight throughout their entire supply chain and contractor network.
The Savannah Metaplant represents Hyundai’s significant investment in U.S. manufacturing and job creation. The facility is the largest economic development project in Georgia’s history and is expected to create 14,000 manufacturing jobs. Hyundai’s efforts to bolster manufacturing in the U.S. have been applauded by both Democrats and Republicans, with the plant also capable of producing hybrid cars in addition to electric vehicles.
As the situation unfolds, Hyundai continues to monitor and address any potential impacts on their operations. The company remains focused on upholding legal compliance and ensuring the well-being of all individuals involved in their projects.