Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Euisun expressed relief after learning that hundreds of Korean workers who had been detained by U.S. immigration authorities were being released and returning home. Speaking at a Detroit conference on September 11, Chung said, “I was truly concerned about that incident. I felt relieved to hear the news that they are safely returning home.” He also highlighted the close cooperation between the South Korean and U.S. governments, expressing hope for a “better visa system” in the future.
The incident involved roughly 300 Korean workers employed at the construction site of Hyundai Motor Group’s joint battery plant with LG Energy Solution in Georgia. The workers were detained over alleged visa and employment violations. The detentions have already impacted operations, with Hyundai’s global president and CEO Jose Munoz confirming that the battery plant’s launch will be delayed by at least two to three months.
The case raised concerns in South Korea, especially as it came on the heels of lengthy negotiations that recently secured a reduction in U.S. tariffs on Korean vehicle imports from 25% to 15%. Despite the setback, Chung reaffirmed Hyundai’s commitment to the American market, calling the U.S. “the largest and most important market for Hyundai Motor Group” with a “very mature customer base.” He pledged that the company would continue to contribute to U.S. consumers.
Chung also emphasized Hyundai’s focus on environmental sustainability, citing concerns from younger generations about protecting the planet. “How can we protect whales? How can we protect this environment?” he asked, stressing that Hyundai aims to provide answers through “better products and better zero-emission products.”
Looking ahead, Chung highlighted Hyundai’s push into autonomous driving, while acknowledging the technological challenges involved. “Young people want to do more creative things,” he said. “We want autonomous vehicles to be useful, but it is not easy to develop because there are so many variables in real-world driving.”
Concluding his remarks, Chung reflected on Hyundai Motor Group’s heritage and identity, expressing his wish for customers to remember the company as “a true friend that helps their lives.”
