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Plane on the way to pick up South Koreans
A plane is reportedly on its way to Georgia to pick up the 300 South Koreans who were detained during an ICE raid in south Georgia last week.
ATLANTA - A South Korean charter plane departed Incheon International Airport on Wednesday bound for the United States to bring home workers detained in last week’s immigration raid at a Hyundai battery plant construction site in Georgia.
What we know:
U.S. authorities detained 475 workers during the Sept. 4 raid, including more than 300 South Koreans. Video released by U.S. officials showed some of those detained shackled at the wrists, ankles and waist, which caused widespread concern in South Korea.
The workers were taken to the immigration detention center in Folkston, Georgia. South Korean officials previously they had reached an agreement with U.S. authorities for the workers’ release and voluntary return, rather than deportation, which could have barred reentry to the U.S. for up to 10 years, according to The Associated Press.
The released workers were expected to be moved to Atlanta to board a Korean Air Boeing 747-8i for the flight home.
RELATED STORIES
- South Korea bringing home 300 workers detained in Georgia ICE raid
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- 475 arrested during federal raid of Hyundai battery site in South Georgia
What's next:
The plane landed in Atlanta around 10 a.m. Wednesday. Initially it was reported that the plane would depart on Wednesday afternoon. However, FOX 5 Atlanta was later informed that the flight would not be taking off on Wednesday.
The New York Times reported that officials in Seoul have indicated they are frustrated and angry with the Trump Administration and the plane's departure was delayed because of issues with the Americans. The specific issues have not been detailed.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.