Over 300 South Korean workers, detained in a massive US immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia, have returned home to emotional reunions at Incheon International Airport. Their arrival follows a week of "confusion and fear," with many traumatised by being "handcuffed and shackled" during the raid and subsequent detention. One worker exclaimed, "I'm back, I'm free," reflecting the relief of those aboard the chartered flight.

This incident has severely "shaken ties" between the US and South Korea, threatening billions in Korean investment. President Lee Jae Myung warned the situation was "extremely bewildering" and could make companies "very hesitant" to invest further. Hyundai's CEO confirmed the raid would delay the Georgia factory's opening by "minimum two to three months". 

While South Korea calls for a new visa category for corporate investors, the White House has defended the operation, with President Trump dismissing investment concerns and urging foreign firms to hire Americans. The saga highlights a deepening diplomatic rift, despite the two nations being close allies.