"Although this detention situation is unfortunate, in the long run it could become a blessing in disguise—turning a crisis into an opportunity—that strengthens the Korea-U.S. partnership."
James Kim, chairman and chief executive officer (CEO) of the American Chamber of Commerce in Korea (AMCHAM), met with ChosunBiz on the 12th and said, "Many Korean corporations and employees have come to recognize through this situation that a fundamental solution is needed for visa issues," adding, "The U.S. government likely did not know that Korea had this inconvenience, but this incident made them fully aware. Since both countries recognize the problems, swift government-to-government consultations should begin."
AMCHAM is a nonprofit corporation established in 1953 to expand and promote trade and commerce between Korea and the United States. As Korea's largest foreign economic organization, with more than 800 domestic and overseas corporations as members, it conveys corporations' views to the Korean and U.S. governments.
In fact, U.S. President Donald Trump was reportedly not briefed on the exact facts of the situation. After understanding that the United States could not immediately find workers to replace Korea's skilled labor, Trump instructed that "talks and measures be carried out swiftly so that it can proceed as the Korean side wants." Afterward, the detained Koreans changed into comfortable clothing and were allowed to use their mobile phones freely.
Kim said, "We respect the U.S. legal system, but situations like this do not help build trust between countries," adding, "It is important now to look at the situation calmly and based on facts. This incident did not target any particular Korean corporation. A similar enforcement action took place in New York on the same day."
He continued, "The purpose of Korean personnel going to the United States is not to take Americans' jobs but to train local workers and then return," adding, "Because there are not many skilled workers in the United States in semiconductors and batteries, Korea's role in these fields is essential."
On the 4th, U.S. immigration authorities arrested and detained 475 people at the construction site of the Hyundai Motor–LG Energy Solution battery joint-venture plant, including more than 300 Koreans. Most of the detained employees had entered the United States with short-term business visas (B-1), typically used for simple business trips and travel, or with Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
Kim also emphasized the importance of education. He said, "Large corporations have systematic compliance systems, but small and midsize partner firms often find it difficult to fully understand complex regulations," adding, "Consistent visa education for partner companies is necessary, and even if it takes some time, it is important to obtain the visas needed for the job."
Kim is scheduled to attend a business roundtable this week with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, who is visiting Korea. He said, "I want to view this incident not as something that shakes the Korea-U.S. partnership but as a small blip we are briefly experiencing," adding, "I will convey to the U.S. side Korea's situation and the need for a special visa quota (allocation) so that both governments and corporations can feel assured and maintain unwavering trust."