A popular Korean marketplace in Kearny Mesa was raided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on Wednesday.

SAN DIEGO (NEWS 8) - A popular Korean marketplace in Kearny Mesa was raided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on Wednesday.

According to an ICE spokesperson, 26 workers at Zion Market "were determined to be in the U.S. without authorization." They were temporarily taken into custody and released pending the outcome of their immigration case.

The operation was part of an on-going enforcement investigation to ensure businesses are complying with U.S. employment laws.

"HSI San Diego Special Agents are focused on bringing to justice those employers who knowingly break the law, and hire an illegal workforce causing unfair disadvantages to those companies that do comply," said David Shaw, special agent in charge of HSI in San Diego. "Worksite enforcement operations and investigations are important for strengthening public safety and national security, while eliminating worker exploitation, child labor and other illegal practice within the workforce."

Zion Market specializes in a large selection of Asian food items and products. The marketplace also has a popular food court in the building.