After the September Immigration and Customs Enforcement raid set off diplomatic negotiations between the South Korean government and U.S. immigration officials, there was uncertainty about how the raid would affect the South Korean company’s business decisions.

“I think this will have a significant impact on direct investments in the United States moving forward,” Lee said during a press conference after the raid.

Hyundai confirmed on Thursday that it will continue with its investment. The Georgia plant is expected to produce 500,000 units by 2028, with a focus on electric and hybrid models.

The company said the $2.7 billion additional investment in the Georgia megaplant will create 3,000 jobs in the state.

The plant sits on nearly 3,000 acres in Ellabell, Georgia. It began production in October 2024 and is aiming to employ 8,500 workers.

SOUTH KOREA REVIEWING POSSIBLE HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES IN US RAID AT HYUNDAI PLANT

The South Korean government announced on Sept. 7 that it negotiated the release and repatriation of hundreds of South Korean workers who were detained in the ICE raid at the plant. The workers returned to South Korea on Friday.

Lee’s chief of staff, Kang Hoon-sik, also said South Korean government agencies will work with companies to improve the visa system for workers traveling to the United States for business trips to prevent immigration snags moving forward.