More than 300 South Koreans who were detained in a massive immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia have arrived back home.

Their return comes as South Korea's president and Hyundai's chief executive voice concerns about the implications of the raid.

A chartered Korean Air jet carrying the workers, along with 14 non-Koreans also detained, departed Atlanta on Thursday. Reports indicate that one South Korean national opted to remain in the US to seek permanent residency.

The incident has strained relations between the US and South Korea, as South Korean companies are heavily investing in the US, a commitment that former President Trump has actively encouraged.

The workers' departure was delayed over a day due to a White House directive, with President Trump wanting to confirm the workers' intent to stay in the US for further employment and training.

Upon their arrival at Incheon International Airport, the returning workers appeared happy yet exhausted. One worker exclaimed, I'm back, I'm free! while others were met with media and protests against the raid.

The raid drew significant criticism in South Korea, with protest banners questioning the treatment of the workers. Security was heightened at the airport to protect their privacy as they reunited with families.

Last week, US authorities detained nearly 475 individuals, over 300 of them South Korean nationals, claiming they were illegally employed at the Hyundai battery facility, one of the largest foreign investments in the US.

The incident has sparked fears about future investments from South Korean firms, with South Korea's President noting that this could complicate the ability of companies to establish manufacturing facilities in the US.

LG Energy Solution, which collaborates with Hyundai in the plant's operation, has emphasized the legitimate status of many workers arrested, stating they held various visas.

In light of recent events, the South Korean government has called on the US Congress to support a new visa system for Korean companies, as the two nations navigate an uncertain diplomatic landscape influenced by trade negotiations.

Hyundai's CEO has indicated that the raid will cause delays in the factory's opening, as new workers must now be recruited after the incident.