Did the Hyundai-LG raid affect the JS Link deal in Columbus? The CEO answers

With the fallout from the ICE raid this month at a southeast Georgia Hyundai-LG Battery plant, the business relationship between the United States and South Korea has been a concern.

Just three days before the raid, ChooseColumbus announced a $232 million deal with JS Link, a Korean biotechnology company, to build a facility in Columbus.

Since then, the Ledger-Enquirer has tried to get JS Link’s reaction to the ICE raid that detained hundreds of South Korean workers and how it affects the agreement in Columbus.

J.B. Park, CEO and president of JS Link, told the L-E in an email Wednesday, “While the raid at the Hyundai facility was shocking to many people who are in the Republic of Korea, JS Link America, Inc. does not have any concerns that the visas, if necessary, can be managed for its potential overseas employees. It was more important that the business fit was proper for JS Link America, Inc. and Columbus. The State of Georgia has been very welcoming, and pro-business stances have not changed under the state governorship.”

Park confirmed that JS Link’s facility construction will continue as planned in Columbus.

Park also explained why JS Link chose Columbus.

“Based on the logistics from Atlanta by car or air, and other supply chain matters, Columbus is an optimal location for the business,” Park said. “In addition, the Columbus community and its Economic Development team, ChooseColumbus, were instrumental in assisting with the land information and other regulatory insights that were very helpful in making the decision.”