A Texas A&M Ph.D. student and lawful permanent resident, Tae Heung “Will” Kim, was detained by U.S. immigration officials at San Francisco International Airport on July 21, 2025, after returning from his brother’s wedding in South Korea. Kim, who has lived in the United States 🇺🇸 since age five, remains in custody more than a week later, raising serious concerns about due process and immigrant rights.
Kim’s attorneys say he was held for at least eight days without access to legal counsel or direct contact with his family. “He was denied basic rights—no lawyer, no family, no explanation,” said attorney Karl Krooth. Kim’s legal team, including Eric Lee, has repeatedly asked U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for reasons behind the detention but received no clear answers.
Key facts about the case:
– Detention date: July 21, 2025, at San Francisco International Airport
– Duration: At least eight days in custody as of July 29-30, 2025
– Legal status: Lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for about 35 years
– Reason for detention: Not officially disclosed; Kim has a 2011 misdemeanor marijuana possession charge, resolved with community service and record sealing
Kim’s attorneys describe harsh detention conditions: 24-hour artificial lighting, no daylight except at night, limited food, only water to drink, and sleeping in a chair. He was allowed just one brief call to his mother. “This is not how the United States 🇺🇸 should treat a lawful permanent resident,” said Krooth.
Advocacy groups, including the National Korean American Service & Education Consortium, have condemned the detention as arbitrary and unconstitutional. They argue Kim’s case reflects a broader trend of stricter immigration enforcement, especially at airports. “We’re seeing more long-term residents and students detained for old or minor offenses,” said a spokesperson for the group.
Kim, a Texas A&M doctoral student researching Lyme disease vaccines, traveled to South Korea for his brother’s wedding. Upon return, he was detained despite having resolved his only criminal offense years ago. Legal experts say minor offenses like Kim’s should not lead to deportation, especially when waivers are available and the offense is old. As reported by VisaVerge.com, this case highlights growing fears among immigrant communities about increased detentions and lack of transparency.
CBP and ICE have not explained why Kim remains detained. A CBP spokesperson said green card holders with drug convictions may be issued notices to appear and held pending removal, but did not comment on Kim’s specific situation. Kim’s legal team is challenging the detention and seeking his release.
What can affected individuals do?
– Know your rights: Lawful permanent residents should understand their rights at ports of entry. The official CBP website provides helpful information.
– Seek legal help: If detained, request access to an attorney and contact family as soon as possible.
– Stay informed: Monitor updates from advocacy groups and legal representatives.
Kim’s case may prompt calls for policy reform to protect lawful permanent residents and ensure fair treatment at U.S. airports. Many are watching closely as his removal proceedings continue.
Learn Today
Lawful Permanent Resident → A non-citizen authorized to live and work indefinitely in the United States with a green card.
CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection) → Federal agency managing border enforcement and screening at U.S. ports of entry.
ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) → Agency enforcing immigration laws inside the U.S., including detentions and removals.
Notice to Appear → A legal document issued to non-citizens initiating removal proceedings in immigration court.
Record Sealing → Legal process that hides a criminal record from public view after meeting certain conditions.
This Article in a Nutshell
Texas A&M student Tae Heung Kim was detained eight days at San Francisco Airport without legal counsel. His minor past offense was resolved, yet authorities withheld reasons. Advocacy groups criticize the unconstitutional treatment of permanent residents and demand transparency and reform in immigration enforcement practices at U.S. ports.
— By VisaVerge.com
