Commentary: Develop Fulton Chair Urges Balance After Immigration Actions on Korean Firms in Georgia

Editor’s note: This commentary was written by Kwanza Hall and provided to Global Atlanta by Develop Fulton, whose board of directors he chairs. Mr. Hall was in Seoul this week to participate in an American Chamber of Commerce Korea forum on the establishment of a new “K-Visa” quota for Korean engineers supporting investments in the United States.

The recent immigration enforcement actions in Georgia, which resulted in the detainment of more than 300 South Korean nationals, remind us of the delicate balance between upholding the laws of our land and leading with understanding in times of uncertainty.

As Chairman of Develop Fulton, I want to reaffirm our steadfast commitment to being thoughtful, trusted partners in global business and investment. Our role is to cultivate thriving international relationships while ensuring that companies operating here remain in compliance with federal law and maintain environments of trust, transparency, and accountability.

Over the years, we have built meaningful and enduring ties with South Korean business leaders, from memoranda of understanding with Seongnam to international business development missions across Goyang and Gyeongsangbuk that advanced collaboration in logistics, robotics, and advanced manufacturing. These partnerships are not only economic in nature but also represent a bridge between cultures, innovation, and people.

Now, more than ever, we must strengthen these bridges. As global supply chains and local economies alike feel the immediate impact of this moment, it is urgent that we lead with clarity, empathy, and resolve. To prevent a cascading impact that could harm both our local and national economies, we must advance more deliberate legislation to preserve critical skilled technicians, avoid operational disruptions, and sustain a strong, industry-ready workforce.

Fulton County remains committed to being a global hub for innovation and international growth. Our partnerships, including those with our business allies in South Korea, will continue to shape a future where economic opportunity is advanced through respect, understanding, and shared responsibility.

Develop Fulton Chairman Kwanza Hall is a former U.S. Congressman, Atlanta City Council member, and Atlanta School Board member, who has served on the Develop Fulton Board of Directors since 2023.

About Develop Fulton

Develop Fulton, also known as the Development Authority of Fulton County, delivers diverse, targeted economic development financing services, connecting qualified development projects with taxable and tax-exempt bond financing and tax incentives to diversify the tax base, encourage thoughtful and balanced investment, retain existing businesses, promote job creation, and ultimately improve the quality of life for residents throughout Fulton County. Together, we are partnering for progress, powering development.