Korean violinist released on bond after several weeks of ICE detention

A Korean musician detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was released after several weeks in custody. John Shin, 37, a violinist, had been held in Colorado but secured release when a federal immigration judge approved his bail. The case has drawn attention due to his past DACA status and ongoing green card application.

On September 2, Judge Melanie Corrin of the Aurora Immigration Court granted Shin’s release on a $25,000 bond. Friends and supporters raised the funds through charity concerts and community donations.

Shin, a resident of Utah, was arrested on August 18 in Colorado Springs while on a business trip. ICE officials confirmed his detention following a background check at Fort Carson, where he had been working on an assignment.

Shin previously held legal status under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. However, a 2019 DUI conviction and probation caused him to lose DACA eligibility. Despite that setback, he later married Dane Snow, a U.S. citizen, in 2021 and began preparing for a green card application.

His application process was delayed when his wife lost her job during the pandemic, preventing the couple from meeting the income requirement of $50,000 needed to file the Form I-130 family petition.

Immigration authorities stressed that Shin had multiple opportunities to maintain legal status but failed to act. They described him as being in the U.S. unlawfully at the time of his arrest.

Shin earned a master’s degree from the University of Utah and performed with the Utah Symphony Orchestra. After the pandemic, he worked in the telecommunications sector to support himself. His release bond was made possible by supporters who organized fundraising events, including benefit concerts.

Shin’s case underscores the legal complexities faced by immigrants who lose DACA protections but later seek permanent residency through marriage. His immigration proceedings remain ongoing.

BY HANKIL KANG  [kang.hankil@koreadaily.com]