Good news for Yeonsoo Go, the South Korean student attending Purdue University! Late Monday, she was released from federal immigration detention. This comes just days after her arrest sparked widespread concern and rallying support from various faith leaders.
Known as “Soo” by friends and family, Yeonsoo spent five days behind bars. She was taken into custody by agents from ICE right after what her lawyers described as a regular visa hearing in Manhattan last Thursday.
In a moment filled with relief, Go shared, “I always had faith that I would be out soon.” She expressed hope for everyone’s safety as she reunited with her mother right after being freed.
The 20-year-old college student didn’t have to post bail for her release, which happened after she was transported back to Manhattan from an ICE detention facility in Louisiana, as her attorney, Mary Rothwell Davis, explained. Davis works for the Episcopal Diocese of New York, where Go’s mother serves as a priest.
“We are thrilled!” Davis told CNN’s WCBS. “We’ve fought hard to make sure Soo is seen and heard because she doesn’t belong in detention. Green lights ahead!”
Soo’s troubles began when she aimed to convert her R-2 visa, which is specifically for religious workers’ dependents, into a student visa. Moving to the U.S. in 2021 with her mother, Rev. Kyrie Kim, Go’s visa is still valid until December, contradicting claims from the Department of Homeland Security that it had expired.
Tricia McLaughlin, a DHS Assistant Secretary, reportedly claimed Soo’s visa ran out more than two years ago, putting her in “expedited removal proceedings” post-arrest. However, the reasons behind her release remain unclear, as explained by another attorney, Ashley Gonzalez-Grissom. She remains optimistic about Soo’s return home to sleep in her own bed while also mindful that unanswered questions are hanging in the air.
Despite securing her freedom, Go’s immigration case still rolls on, as her legal team continues to work alongside federal agents.
As Soo prepared for her Thursday hearing, she confessed to a friend that she felt anxious, especially given the ongoing aggressive immigration pursuit showcased in the headlines about the Trump administration. Her fears turned into harsh reality when she discovered ICE agents lurking outside right after her hearing finished.
Supporters Join Forces for Her Release
In response to her treatment at the hands of immigration officials, numerous church communities across New York and South Korea mobilized, demanding justice and solidarity for Soo.
During a peaceful demonstration at Manhattan’s Federal Plaza, supporters—including folks from the Episcopal Diocese of New York, the Interfaith Center of New York, and the New York Immigration Coalition—came together to express their demand for her release. Unbeknownst to them, she was being transferred to a facility in Louisiana simultaneously.
The demonstration was filled with prayers, melodies, and signs displaying Yeonsoo’s photo, with friends fondly recalling her positive impact on the community. “Soo’s always been there for me,” remarked Gabriella Lopez, who shared how they used to whip up meals hand-in-hand for the homeless—heartwarming stories surfacing amidst uncertainty.
Soo’s mother stayed updated on her daughter’s situation via regular phone calls until she learned about her daughter’s transfer to Louisiana online—a shock for both her and their family, as Rev. Matthew Heyd of the Episcopal Diocese of New York mentioned.
According to ICE records, Soo ended up being held at the Richwood Correctional Center in Monroe, Louisiana.
When Soo’s father, Sorg-young, first got the news about her situation, he felt overwhelmed and expressed profound gratitude towards everyone who rallied together in support once Yeonsoo was released.
It was made clear that Yeonsoo’s diligent efforts in high school propelled her into Purdue’s College of Pharmacy. Having successfully made it through her freshman year, every effort is now placed into ensuring her bright future continues, he hopes. “It’s just gut-wrenching that this fell into place when she was gearing up for her second year. She’s such a vibrant girl with many friends,” he shared.
Drew Patrick, Superintendent of Scarsdale Schools, echoed this sentiment, affirming her value in their school community with a note attesting to her good character.
It’s worth noting that Go’s mother, Rev. Kim, shattered precedents as the first woman ordained in the Seoul Diocese of the Anglican Church of Korea, and the church rallied hard for Yeonsoo’s release. Rev. Dongshin Park expressed during their plea for her freedom the commitment to maintain human dignity while reviewing her immigration situation amid the values they treasure as nations.
Soo’s detention didn’t just mark a personal struggle; it took place alongside tighter immigration controls during the Trump era, with the DOJ even suing NYC recently for policies they believed were obstructing federal regulations.
Go’s family reached out to the South Korean officials, hoping for quick actions to appropriately manage Yeonsoo’s situation.
“Time is of the essence, and I trust the South Korean government will jump into action to help facilitate her release expediently,” stated Go’s father.
The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed its communication with U.S. officials regarding Soo’s case, ensuring assistance has been provided since they were informed of her plight.
Purdue University has also acknowledged that this issue has come to light, letting it be known that they are on it, reaching out to support Yeonsoo’s family.
This article has been updated with extra information.
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